In a recent interview, Infosys Chief Technology Officer (CTO) Mohammed Rafee Tarafdar emphasized the imperative of embedding responsible artificial intelligence (AI) into the core ethos of organizations, rather than treating it as an afterthought. He underscored that responsible AI should be integral to an organization’s DNA, guiding the development and deployment of AI technologies in a manner that aligns with ethical standards and societal values.
Tech for Good Initiatives
Infosys has been proactive in leveraging technology for social impact through its ‘Tech for Good’ program, which falls under the company’s Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) ambitions. The program focuses on three key areas: e-governance, healthcare, and education. As of 2025, Infosys has achieved its goal of positively impacting 80 million lives and is in the process of redefining its objectives for 2030.
Notable Projects
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E-Governance: Infosys collaborates with the Indian Institute of Information Technology (IIIT) Bangalore on the Modular Open Source Identity Platform (MOSIP), aiming to build digital identities for citizens worldwide. This includes developing an Android registration client used in countries like Zambia and Ethiopia to onboard users in remote areas with limited internet connectivity.
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Healthcare and Education: While specific projects were not detailed in the interview, Infosys’ commitment to these sectors involves deploying technology solutions to improve public services and access to essential resources.
AI-First Strategy
Under Tarafdar’s leadership, Infosys is transitioning to an ‘AI-first’ company. This strategy involves reimagining business processes and operations to incorporate AI, thereby amplifying human potential and unlocking new value streams. The company has committed to training 40,000 employees in generative AI skills, reflecting its dedication to building internal AI capabilities.
Responsible AI Framework
Infosys has established a framework comprising 12 principles of responsible AI, including explainability, fairness, security, privacy, and regulatory compliance. These principles ensure that AI systems are transparent, ethical, and aligned with societal values. The company has also set up a dedicated AI team to embed ‘responsible by design’ principles into all AI initiatives.
Impact on Talent and Industry
The rise of AI technologies necessitates new roles and skills within the tech industry. Infosys anticipates increased demand for expertise in responsible AI and model engineering. The company is actively upskilling its workforce and creating specialized positions to adapt to these evolving needs.
Conclusion
Mohammed Rafee Tarafdar’s insights highlight the critical importance of integrating responsible AI into the foundational principles of organizations. Infosys’ initiatives in this realm serve as a model for leveraging technology ethically to drive social good and business transformation
