Country can grow only if criticism is allowed: Narayana Murthy

Kolkata: Infosys founder Narayana Murthy said on Sunday that a country can grow only if criticism is allowed.

Speaking at the centenary celebrations of the Indian Chamber of Commerce in Kolkata, Murthy highlighted the concept of compassionate capitalism, implications of artificial intelligence on employment generation and the role of youth to take the country forward.

"Technology helps in reducing costs, increasing profitability and thus technology has a lot of value. Knowledge is a great leveller. That's why financial inclusion is done," Murthy said while talking about the future of AI and its implication on employment.


Murthy said he looks forward to a day when cars will be driven autonomously without drivers. "There will be no honking or signal violation, etc. AI can be used to reduce hazardous operations and high-risk jobs. AI can be utilised for disease detection," he observed. "Technology is here to stay," he said, while adding "guard rails must be put on unsupervised learning". He pointed out how technology has created more jobs in the banking sector. "Entrepreneurs, not bureaucrats or politicians, act as the engines of growth to make a financially strong country," he said.

Murthy said "seeking respect from society is essential and criticism should be accepted from all before any boardroom decisions are taken".