Artificial Intelligence and Employment in India: A Socio-Technical Analysis with Empirical Evidence from Manipur

As Artificial Intelligence (AI) rapidly transforms global labour markets, its implications for employment in developing regions such as India remain insufficiently understood. This study investigates the socio-economic, technological, and policy dimensions of AI's impact on employment, with a specific focus on the state of Manipur. Using a mixed-method approach and survey data from 100 participants across public, private, informal, and student sectors, the research identifies significant disparities in AI awareness and digital literacy. Statistical analyses, including Chi-square tests and independent t-tests, reveal a strong association between employment sector and AI awareness, with informal sector workers exhibiting greater concern about job displacement. A multiple linear regression model indicates that digital literacy, AI awareness, and infrastructure access together explain 48% of the variance in perceived employment security. Furthermore, a confidence interval analysis highlights the low digital literacy baseline among informal workers. These findings underscore the urgent need for targeted policy interventions aimed at digital up skilling, infrastructure development, and inclusive AI education. The study concludes that while AI holds transformative potential, its equitable integration into India's labour landscape requires human-centred strategies that address structural inequalities. This research contributes to the growing discourse on AI and employment in emerging economies, providing valuable insights for policymakers, educators, and technology stakeholders.