Automation on lead creation

Hi,

I'm using Zoho CRM API to create a lead and successfully the lead gets created on submission of details.
Also, i have created an Automation Rule for Leads, with alert emails to be sent on lead creation through the API. But, this part does not work for me. I don't get any alert emails on lead creation.

What is the process of setting up rules and alert emails for leads created through API?
Is there any way to handle emails through API?