In an interview with CNBC-TV18 during the World Economic Forum in Davos, Narasimhan highlighted that a substantial portion of Novartis’ AI initiatives is taking place in Hyderabad. He pointed out that many of the company’s leading scientists and engineers focused on AI operations are located there, driving innovation for modernization initiatives.
He emphasized that Novartis is setting ambitious goals for its workforce, with cost optimization being a primary focus. According to Narasimhan, to advance with AI, the company must enhance the speed of medicine delivery through this technology, despite the progress in market development in India not meeting his expectations over time.
Regarding the workforce, Narasimhan expressed that Novartis is satisfied with its current employee levels in India. He further mentioned the importance of continuing collaboration with the Indian government to update the Ayushman Bharat system, facilitating broader access to innovative medications for patients in the country.
Looking forward, Narasimhan noted that significant breakthroughs in neuroscience could be on the horizon, as Novartis is making substantial investments in areas like neuromuscular diseases, as well as conditions such as Huntington’s, Parkinson’s, and Alzheimer’s.
(Edited by : Ajay Vaishnav)
First Published: Jan 21, 2026 5:30 PM IST
