As the global IT sector undergoes significant transformations, India remains a pivotal hub for talent, adeptly navigating the tectonic shifts shaping the industry. Leading Indian IT giant Tata Consultancy Services (TCS), which also has a global presence, plans to hire approximately 40,000 freshers in the current financial year, continuing its robust recruitment drive.
In the June quarter alone, Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) added 5,452 employees, pushing its total headcount to 606,998. Milind Lakkad, TCS’s CHRO, underscored India’s enduring appeal for talent amidst diverse skill requirements and geopolitical challenges elsewhere. “India is the destination for talent, and that is not going to change in the near future,” Lakkad said. He emphasized TCS’s initiatives to bridge academia-industry gaps through extensive reskilling and upskilling programmes, uniquely positioned at scale. “I am very confident about a positive way forward for Indian talent,” Lakkad added, optimistic about future achievements.
Addressing concerns about AI impacting employment, Lakkad reassured that while technology reshapes job landscapes, TCS employees are adept at adapting. TCS has implemented salary increments ranging from 4.5% to 7%, with high performers receiving 10-12%. The Elevate Runway programme further incentivises career growth, particularly for junior employees doubling their compensation through accelerated learning paths.
The programme, open to employees across all levels, focuses not only on financial. rewards but also on career advancement aligned with individual aspirations. Over 400,000 employees have enrolled, demonstrating its popularity and impact. Additionally, TCS’s mid-level Transformation programme (MLT) supports employees in acquiring market-relevant skills to take on new roles within the organisation. TCS recently updated its variable pay policy to integrate office attendance as a critical factor, reflecting evolving work dynamics. Lakkad noted that while about 70% of employees have returned to office, the policy adjustment aims to maintain discipline and foster positive workplace energy. “The idea is not punitive but to incentivise office attendance positively,” Lakkad added.
