The CIO Association, a non-profit organization of CIOs nationwide that was established in 2008 to promote a strong technological revolution in the nation, celebrated the sixth anniversary of its Kolkata chapter at Taj Taal Kutir, New Town, Kolkata, with AI Adda 2025. More than 150 CIOs from across the nation attended the event.

AI Adda 2025 was inaugurated in the esteemed presence of Mr.Umesh Mehta, National President of CIO Association, Dr. Sandip Pradhan, President of CIOA Kolkata Chapter, CIO Exide Industries, and Mr.Debashi sSen, IAS Addl Chief Secy IT (retd).

Accompanying them were Sanjeev Sinha, Treasurer, President – IT & D, India Power, Sanjay Goswami, Secretary, IT Head at Maithan Alloys, Samrat Banerjee, Vice President, CIO Emami, Pampa Basu, Jt Secretary, Senior Director, ITC Infotech, Rajesh Dutta, MC Member, CIO UshaMartin, Avaneesh Kumar, MC Member, Senior GM & Head – IT, Eveready Industries, Mitali Biswas, MC Member, CIO CK Birla Hospitals, Sanghamitra Pyne, MC Member, Head – IT, Generation, CESC and Rishikesh Kr Singh, MC Member, VP – IT at Grasim Industries.

Speaking to the media, Dr. Sandip Pradhan, President of the CIO Association Kolkata Chapter, said, “With AI ADDA 2025 as the main theme this year, the focus was on Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Generative AI (Gen AI) as game-changing technologies and business models. Sessions explored in depth how AI can improve automation, innovation, and business efficiency across industries, highlighting its crucial role in influencing digital transformation. Many CIOs indicated a wish to implement these cutting-edge technologies within their companies, and the most recent AI-driven technological advancements and their business value were reviewed. To promote ongoing learning and adaptability to changing technology environments, the CIO Association plans to further the conversations by offering more targeted sessions on AI, Gen AI, Data Protection Laws, and Standards in India”.

The Kolkata Chapter, which serves all of eastern India, is essential in promoting the use of AI, the creation of smart cities, the incubation of startups, and cybersecurity awareness. It establishes the area as a center for digital innovation and transformation while also advancing regional technological advancement.

The IT companies who participated in this event were PwC, SAP, Aumento Technologies, Acceleron, Canon, Manage Engine, Field Assist, DataRobot, Workmates, and Aeonx. US-based DataRobot launched their Indian operations also.

Bollywood singer Mr. Babul Supriyo, who is also the Hon. Minister of IT&E and PE&IR, entertained CIOs with a variety of live songs.

Priyanka Dutta