India’s tech job market in early October 2025 is exhibiting a tale of two realities: robust demand in emerging technologies juxtaposed against a broader slowdown in traditional IT roles. As global uncertainties linger, the sector anticipates a 15–20% rebound in job opportunities for the full year, fueled by AI and digital transformation, yet active openings dipped 27% year-over-year in September. With the workforce reaching 5.8 million in FY25, per NASSCOM , the focus remains on upskilling to bridge persistent gaps. Here’s an in-depth analysis of the latest trends in India’s tech employment for the week of September 29–October 5, 2025, informed by industry reports and discussions on X.
Jobs Overview: Selective Growth Amid Muted Demand
White-collar hiring surged 10% year-over-year in September 2025, per Naukri’s JobSpeak Index, with non-IT sectors leading but tech contributing a steady 1% rise . However, tech-specific openings fell to 48% of total postings in October, down from 84% in 2022 and below pre-2024 levels, according to Xpheno . This reflects a 27% YoY decline in IT services and product roles, with mid-junior positions hit hardest at 28% . NASSCOM reports net additions of 126,000 jobs in FY25, pushing the total to 5.8 million (up 2.2% YoY) , while the unemployment rate stabilized at 5.4% for Q2 2025 . X posts highlight ongoing frustrations with outsourcing and H-1B impacts, underscoring a “founder’s market” for skilled talent .
Key Sectors Driving Tech Hiring
Emerging tech domains continue to outpace legacy areas, with a projected 20% increase in new roles for 2025 :
- AI/ML and Data Science: Demand soared 61–85% in September, with roles like AI architects commanding up to ₹50 lakh annually; projections indicate 30–35% growth in specialized positions .
- Cybersecurity and Cloud Computing: Expected 75% surge, needing over 2 million cloud pros by FY25; penetration testers earn up to ₹11.8 LPA .
- DevOps and Software Engineering: Postings up 15.4% quarterly, with 20% rise in application developers and DevOps engineers .
- Gig Economy and ITeS: IT gig workforce to triple to 24 million by 2030, adding 10% to growth via flexible fintech and e-commerce roles .
Notable Trends and Roles
Software development holds 70% of listings, but AI efficiencies are trimming entry-level slots—echoing global trends like Oracle’s 3,000 layoffs despite growth . Fresher hiring is set to expand 40%, with salaries 30% above norms; top firms like Infosys (20K+), TCS (40K+), Wipro (10–12K), and HCLTech (7K+) lead campus drives . High-value roles include CTOs (₹40 lakh) and software architects (₹34 lakh). Hybrid models persist at 68% of firms, boosting Tier-2 access, while GCCs plan 50% fresher intake hikes with 30% premium pay . X buzz centers on startups adding 170,000 roles, prioritizing AI/ML and data engineering .
Regional and Employer Dynamics
Bengaluru, Hyderabad, and Pune dominate with 83% of jobs, but Tier-2 cities like Coimbatore (+27%), Jaipur (+22%), and Vizag surged 48% YoY . GCCs, eyeing 2.5–2.8 million roles by 2030, drive 52.6% of tech openings . Leaders like TCS, Infosys, and Microsoft prioritize AI talent, with X noting U.S. H-1B debates accelerating India-based hiring
Challenges: Skill Gaps and Outsourcing Pressures
Employability hovers at 42.6% for graduates, with 63% needing upskilling by 2030 in AI and cybersecurity . Automation accounts for 38% of reductions, alongside a 13% drop in AI-exposed early-career roles . Pay transparency is low at 18.3%, and X sentiment rails against perceived outsourcing biases in global tech .
Outlook for Q4 2025
A 9% overall job market expansion is forecast, with IT at 15%, led by BFSI, retail, and telecom . Upskilling budgets rise 15–20%, backed by IndiaAI Mission, though 18 million eye abroad annually . Skill-based hiring will eclipse degrees, favoring diverse pools—67% of firms plan this, per World Economic Forum .
Conclusion
Early October 2025 reveals India’s tech job market as resilient yet bifurcated, with AI and cloud booming against legacy slowdowns. Emphasis on upskilling, Tier-2 expansion, and flexible models will propel growth, positioning India as a global talent powerhouse. Starting this week, Tech Scoop India will deliver these jobs reports every Monday, empowering our readers with the insights to navigate this dynamic landscape.
