India’s job market projected to grow by 9 per cent in 2025

Bengaluru: A 9 per cent hiring growth is expected in India in 2025, according to data released by employment solutions platform Foundit on Thursday.

Technology advancements will drive demand for specialised talent, creating opportunities across industries.

In terms of sectors, IT software and services (with a forecasted growth of 15 per cent), retail (12 per cent), telecommunications (11 per cent), and banking and financial services (BFSI) at 10 per cent are the primary drivers of this growth.

The IT sector growth is driven by the expansion of Global Capability Centres (GCCs) and multi-cloud adoption. The retail sector’s growth is driven by the resurgence of experiential brick-and-mortar stores and growing consumer spending in tier-II and tier-III cities. The telecom sector’s growth is driven by advancements in AI, 5G, and internet of things (IoT).

With a 10 per cent growth in 2024 and 3 per cent month-on-month (MoM) growth in November, the forecast indicates that hiring is set to retain its momentum, with a predictable hiring environment.

Bengaluru is projected to lead city-wise job growth in 2025 with a 10 per cent projection. Demand will remain strong across tech startups, global IT firms, and digital services. This is followed by Coimbatore with 9% growth. The city is seeing rising demand for skilled professionals in manufacturing, engineering, and IT-enabled services, supported by its expanding business ecosystem.

Hyderabad will see 8 per cent growth while Chennai’s growth is projected at 6 per cent.

“Companies are not only looking for seasoned professionals but also broadening their search beyond established hubs,” said Anupama Bhimrajka, Vice President, Marketing, Foundit.

Emerging technologies such as edge computing, quantum applications, and cybersecurity advancements are set to transform industries like manufacturing, healthcare, and IT.

Meanwhile, the rise of retail media networks and AI-driven workforce analytics will reshape talent needs in e-commerce, HR and digital services.

In terms of roles, finance and accounts are expected to see a growth of 8 per cent, followed by HR and admin at 7 per cent, IT at 6 per cent, hospitality at 5 per cent, and marketing and communications at 3 per cent.

In 2024, India’s job market showed robust growth In 2024 across sectors and cities when compared to 2023, despite seasonal disparities. Industries such as manufacturing (30 per cent), consumer electronics (29 per cent), and real estate (21 per cent) drove momentum.

Cities like Coimbatore (27 per cent) and Jaipur (22 per cent) led regional growth.

Medical roles led function-wise growth at 17 per cent. Marketing and communications followed at 16 per cent , with IT roles next at 6 per cent.

Forecasted industry-wise hiring growth in 2025

IT software and services: 15 per cent

Retail: 12 per cent  

Telecommunications: 11 per cent  

Banking and financial services (BFSI): 10 per cent  

Manufacturing: 7 per cent  

Real estate: 7 per cent  

Advertising and public relations: 5 per cent  

Logistics and transportation: 4 per cent  

Automotive: 4 per cent  

Energy: 2 per cent