India's job market to expand by 9% in 2025: Report

Bengaluru: India’s job market is projected to expand by 9% in 2025, according to a report released on Thursday by foundit (formerly Monster APAC & ME). The report highlights that key sectors such as IT, retail, telecommunications, Banking, Financial Services, and Insurance (BFSI) will be the primary drivers of this growth.

Following a 10% increase in hiring in 2024 and a 3% month-on-month growth in November 2023, the report predicts continued momentum with a stable and predictable hiring environment. Emerging technologies and shifting business priorities are poised to reshape India’s employment landscape in 2025.

Innovations such as edge computing, quantum applications, and advanced cybersecurity solutions are expected to transform industries like Manufacturing, Healthcare, and IT. In addition, retail media networks and AI-powered workforce analytics are anticipated to redefine talent demands in e-commerce, HR, and digital services. Companies will increasingly seek professionals skilled in digital marketing, ad management, and HR analytics.

Commenting on the findings, Anupama Bhimrajka, Vice President – Marketing at foundit, said that India’s job market is expanding with a projected 9% growth in hiring. Bhimrajka emphasized that companies are not only targeting seasoned professionals but are also exploring talent beyond established hubs, which is expected to foster a more diverse and inclusive workforce aligned with future needs.

The IT sector is expected to drive a 15% surge in hiring, powered by the growth of Global Capability Centers (GCCs) and the adoption of multi-cloud infrastructure. Businesses are focusing on operational agility and sustainability, implementing energy-efficient data centers, green IT practices, and refurbished hardware solutions.

The retail sector is forecasted to achieve a 12% growth in hiring, fueled by rising demand for traditional and tech-enabled roles. Growth in this sector is attributed to the resurgence of experiential brick-and-mortar stores and increased consumer spending in Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities.

In the telecom sector, an 11% growth is anticipated due to advancements in AI, 5G, and IoT technologies. Skills in edge computing, software-defined networking (SDN), network function virtualization (NFV), and cybersecurity will be in high demand.

Other sectors expected to see significant growth in hiring include finance and accounts (+8%), HR and administration (+7%), IT (+6%), hospitality (+5%), and marketing and communications (+3%).

Bengaluru will lead city-wise growth with a 10% increase in hiring, followed by Coimbatore (9%), Hyderabad (8%), and Chennai (6%), the report added.

With IANS inputs