New Delhi, Oct. 9 -- Indian enterprises are accelerating AI leadership: 25% already have a Chief AI Officer (CAIO), and 67% plan to appoint one within two years, the IBM Institute for Business Value finds - a sign that organisations are shifting from pilots toward scaled AI programs with a named executive accountable for outcomes.

The IBM study reports strong C-suite backing for CAIOs in India: 77% say they have solid executive support, and 67% report direct CEO backing. That mandate is reflected in reporting lines; 60% of CAIOs report to the CEO or board, which gives these leaders authority to prioritise and fund enterprise-wide AI initiatives.

Indian CAIOs carry a wide remit. The study lists the top responsibilities as defining AI str...