How is India Thriving Amid a Global Decline in Skilled Worker Mobility?
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Synopsis
India is emerging as a major talent hub, gaining ground in AI and STEM domains even as global mobility of skilled workers declines. This report highlights India's educational strength and its leading universities in producing AI talent, amidst a backdrop of reduced international worker movement. Discover how India's proactive approach sets it apart.
Key Takeaways
- India's skilled workforce is on the rise with a 1.9% increase in AI talent share.
- Major universities in India produce a significant number of globally mobile AI graduates.
- The US continues to be a top destination for skilled professionals.
- The decline in global mobility is primarily due to geopolitical issues and stricter immigration policies.
- Countries with proactive hiring and flexible policies will gain economic advantages.
New Delhi, Dec 5 (NationPress) Despite a 8.5 percent year-on-year drop in the global movement of highly skilled workers, amounting to approximately 220,000 fewer long-term cross-border job transitions, India has emerged as a robust talent powerhouse, according to a report released on Friday.
The analysis by Boston Consulting Group (BCG) reveals that India has achieved a 1.9 percent increase in its share of global artificial intelligence (AI) talent and a 1.4 percent rise in its STEM talent share, consistently ranking within the top 10 globally across all talent categories monitored.
Supported by a vast, educated population and significant representation in prestigious universities, India is characterized as one of the most resilient and forward-looking talent hubs internationally.
BCG noted that seven out of the top ten universities globally producing AI talent are situated in India, with Jawaharlal Nehru Technological University leading in the number of internationally mobile AI graduates, spreading across five key destination markets.
Following closely are the University of Mumbai, Anna University in Chennai, and Visvesvaraya Technological University.
The global downturn in mobility has been attributed to factors such as geopolitical instability, reduced hiring, and stricter migration policies in major destination countries, notably Canada and the United Kingdom.
The United States remains the primary destination for skilled workers, increasing its share by 2.4 percentage points overall and 3.3 percentage points among STEM talent. The UAE attracted 178,000 highly skilled professionals in 2025, securing a position among the top three for STEM, AI, and overall skilled talent.
The report emphasizes that countries with proactive hiring ecosystems, adaptable migration policies, and strong educational infrastructures will be best positioned for long-term economic success.
Point of View
It is inspiring to see India not only maintaining but enhancing its position as a global talent hub despite the challenges posed by declining international mobility. This resilience reflects India’s robust educational framework and its ability to adapt to global trends.
NationPress
05/12/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the report say about India's position in global talent?
The report indicates that India has strengthened its role as a talent engine, gaining in AI and STEM talent shares, even as global skilled worker mobility declines.
Which Indian universities are leading in AI talent production?
Jawaharlal Nehru Technological University is at the forefront, followed by the University of Mumbai, Anna University in Chennai, and Visvesvaraya Technological University.
What factors are contributing to the decline in global worker mobility?
Geopolitical uncertainty, weakened hiring, and stricter migration policies in major destination countries are the main reasons for the decline.
How is the US performing in terms of attracting skilled workers?
The US has increased its share of skilled workers by 2.4 percentage points overall, and 3.3 points among STEM talent, maintaining its status as a leading destination.
