Mahindra Group Unveils AI Unit To Bolster Its Biz Operations

With India rolling up its sleeves for faster adoption of artificial intelligence, one of the country’s prominent players in the automotive space, Mahindra Group, has taken a plunge into the new age technology with a dedicated AI division, aimed at tapping into advanced technologies for the benefit of various businesses.

This move aims to centralise AI efforts and integrate them into mainstream operations.

The division is positioned at the Mahindra Group’s corporate level, designed to serve all the group’s businesses, including Mahindra & Mahindra (automotive), Mahindra Lifespace (real estate) and Mahindra Holidays (hospitality).

Bhuwan Lodha, who previously led digital operations in the group’s flagship auto business, has been appointed to head this new AI division. 

PTI reported citing Lodha, “We have set up the AI division at a group level which is tasked to make our businesses successful with AI.”

Lodha explained that the new division will initially draw AI talent from various group companies. “AI projects became side hustles for every IT team in every company. Now we are bringing it mainstream,” he added.

The Mahindra Group’s AI division will focus on developing tailored AI solutions for its companies while also leveraging global innovations, including those from startups and universities. Lodha mentioned that the division would collaborate with Tech Mahindra, the group’s IT services arm, for domain expertise.

“Our goal is to build the right AI solutions for all the group companies,” Lodha stated, highlighting the potential applications across Mahindra’s diverse sectors including auto, real estate, and hospitality. The division will unify AI efforts across the group, drawing on expertise from Tech Mahindra for specialised technical support.

This move aligns with the broader trend of Indian conglomerates investing in AI capabilities. During Reliance Industries’ 47th AGM, chairman Mukesh Ambani announced plans to integrate generative AI into all of Jio’s processes and offerings. The company is developing ‘Jio Brain’, a comprehensive suite of AI platforms and tools, currently being tested within all Reliance group companies.

Similarly, TCS launched ‘AI WisdomNext’, designed to remove barriers for customers to develop and launch business solutions using GenAI tools. Siva Ganesan, head of AI.Cloud Unit at TCS, said, “TCS AI WisdomNext helps our customers take advantage of GenAI to unlock the full potential of their data, drive greater business innovation and efficiency and gain a competitive edge.”

The Mahindra Group’s AI division is also expected to play a crucial role in talent development. Lodha emphasised that the division would provide a career path for AI specialists and ensure engaging work across multiple entities and sectors.