New Delhi, Nov 11 (NationPress) The total hiring intent in India for 2026 is recorded at 11 percent, an increase from 9.75 percent in 2025, indicating a noticeable enhancement in employment outlook, according to a recent report released on Tuesday.

This increase signifies a shift in India Inc's approach from cautious replacement hiring to a more dynamic workforce growth. The banking, financial services, and insurance (BFSI) sector is at the forefront of this optimism.

This sector tops the hiring sentiment at 20 percent, followed by essential industries such as metal and mining, power, utilities, steel, and cement, which stand at 12 percent, as highlighted by a report from Taggd in partnership with the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII).

The report points out that this year is becoming notable for experienced professionals, with organizations increasingly focusing on mid- and senior-level talent.

Individuals with 6–15 years of experience are anticipated to comprise 55 percent of total hires, a rise from 39 percent last year, demonstrating India Inc's growing emphasis on depth in leadership and operational agility.

The hiring intent for candidates possessing 6–10 years of experience is projected to increase to 28 percent (up from 26 percent), while those with 11–15 years and over 15 years are expected to rise to 15 percent and 12 percent, respectively, compared to 9 percent and 4 percent from the previous year.

Meanwhile, early-career professionals (0–5 years) will still find ample opportunities, making up 45 percent of anticipated hires, indicating a consistent demand for youthful talent.

Tier-2 cities are solidifying their position in India’s employment scene, accounting for 32 percent of expected jobs in 2026. Organizations, particularly Global Capability Centers (GCCs), are tapping into new regional talent pools for cost-effectiveness and emerging skill sets, according to the report.

Tier-1 cities dominate with 53 percent, while tier-3 areas at 15 percent are showing early signs of inclusion, highlighting a gradual democratization of India’s job market beyond metropolitan hubs like Mumbai, Bengaluru, and Delhi.

“As India approaches 2026, the job market is exhibiting evident signs of recovery. Following a year of subdued single-digit growth, hiring intent has surged back to double digits at 11 percent, up from 9.75 percent the previous year. This resurgence signifies a transition from recovery to reinvention, fueled by digital acceleration, formalization, and regional expansion,” stated Devashish Sharma, Co-Founder and CEO of Taggd.

Furthermore, the report estimates that India's AI talent pool consists of 23.5 lakh professionals, growing at an impressive 55 percent year-on-year.

Employers are actively seeking candidates proficient in technologies like GenAI, cloud computing, and cybersecurity, alongside specialists in digital and data fields, AI/ML engineers, solutions architects, and sustainability experts.

Skills such as adaptability, problem-solving, cognitive abilities, collaboration, management, engagement, self-efficacy, and ethics remain crucial, as noted in the report.