India’s professional job scene began 2026 with measured optimism, as white-collar postings rose 3% annually in January. Non-IT industries and fresher recruitment were the key catalysts behind this positive shift.
Monday’s Jobspeak Index pinpoints BPO/ITeS with a robust 21%+ growth, hospitality/travel at 15%+, insurance over 7%, and healthcare above 5%. These sectors are reshaping the employment narrative.
Financial services and banking contracted by 15%, IT showed stability, but AI/ML roles advanced sharply by 34%+, pointing to specialized demand.
BPO/ITeS continues its three-month streak in the top five, with 21% overall January increase—39% for freshers and 9% for 13-16 year experienced hires.
Emerging cities powered the rise: Jaipur exceeded 66% growth, Ahmedabad over 43%. MNCs, particularly foreign entities, boosted hiring by more than 80%.
Pune dominated regional stats at 23%, followed by Chennai (18%), Bengaluru (17%), and Ahmedabad (16%), illustrating a multi-city momentum.
Naukri.com Chief Business Officer Dr. Pawan Goyal commented, ‘Ongoing growth in BPO/ITeS and hospitality is encouraging, with Indian IT MNCs adding to the positive outlook for the job market.’
This January snapshot reflects a dynamic market, balancing challenges with opportunities across sectors and geographies, setting a foundation for broader recovery.