TeamLease EdTech’s latest Career Outlook Report for the first half of 2025 signals a strong recovery in freshers hiring across India, with an impressive 74% intent to hire new graduates. The report, covering the period from January to June 2025, highlights robust business confidence and a promising job market for young professionals.
The overall hiring intent across all categories stands at 79%, with IT, Healthcare and Pharma, Marketing and Advertising, and Logistics leading the charge. Deep-tech roles are in high demand, with expertise in Robotic Process Automation, Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning, Cloud Computing, Network Security, and Prompt Engineering topping the list.
Sector-wise surge in hiring intentions Several industries have displayed strong recruitment momentum compared to the second half of 2024. E-commerce and Technology Startups saw a jump in hiring intent from 61% to 70% (+9%), Manufacturing rose from 52% to 66% (+14%), and Engineering and Infrastructure increased to 62%, up from 59% (+3%).
The IT sector showcased remarkable growth, with freshers’ hiring intentions soaring to 59%, compared to 45% in the previous half-year. Healthcare and Pharmaceuticals also gained traction, rising from 47% to 52% (+5%). Even traditionally smaller sectors like Power and Energy and Marketing and Advertising recorded modest growth, with 4% and 2% increases, reaching 22% and 11%, respectively.
Geographically, Bangalore leads with a 78% hiring intent, followed by Mumbai (65%), Delhi NCR (61%), and Chennai (57%), maintaining their status as prime employment hubs for fresh graduates.
Emerging roles and skill demands Deep-tech domains are carving new career paths, with roles like Clinical Bioinformatics Associate, Robotics System Engineer, Sustainability Analyst, Prompt Engineer, AI and Machine Learning Engineer, Cloud Engineer, and Cybersecurity Analyst gaining traction. Professionals with skills in Robotic Process Automation, Performance Marketing, Network Security, and Financial Risk Analysis are highly sought after.
In addition to technical expertise, employers are prioritising soft skills such as computational thinking, interpersonal abilities, analytical reasoning, and adaptability for entry level positions. The shift towards technology driven workplaces is evident, with companies relying on productivity and collaboration tools (83%), project management and task tracking software (73%), and data visualisation tools (64%).
Apprenticeships gaining popularity A notable trend in this report is the increasing adoption of apprenticeship programs. Organisations are turning to degree apprenticeships as a strategic approach to talent development, particularly in Manufacturing (30%), Engineering and Infrastructure (23%), and Information Technology (12%). These programs offer hands-on industry experience, enhancing job readiness.
The report draws insights from a survey of 649 employers across India, offering a comprehensive view of emerging skill demands and freshers’ hiring trends. As businesses continue to adapt to evolving market needs, young professionals with the right skills and adaptability are set to thrive in India’s dynamic job landscape.
