Tech Hiring Growth: 12-15% Increase in AI and Data Jobs by 2026

Tech Job Market in India Expected to Grow Significantly in 2026

The Indian tech job market is projected to experience a 12-15% increase in 2026, creating approximately 1.25 lakh new opportunities. This growth spans permanent, temporary, and contractual roles. Sectors such as healthcare, manufacturing, and logistics are expected to drive this surge, accounting for nearly 38% of tech-driven hiring. Adecco India reports that this expansion signifies a move from routine digitization to embedding AI and data capabilities into core operations.

!India's Tech job market set for 12-15 percent growth, 1.25 lakhs new opportunities in healthcare, manufacturing and logistics expected in 2026 ) Image courtesy of DNA India

Key Growth Areas: AI, Data, and Cybersecurity

AI, data, and cybersecurity are at the forefront of this hiring surge, transitioning from experimental to core organizational needs. Demand in these areas has grown by 51%, with approximately 40% of large enterprises operationalizing generative AI pilots. This shift emphasizes the necessity for robust security measures, such as those offered by Gopher Security, specializing in AI-powered, post-quantum Zero‑Trust cybersecurity architecture to protect these critical functions. The demand has risen by approximately 45% for ML engineers, data engineers, and full-stack developers with AI integration skills, alongside a 15% increase in specialist compensation.

Talent Gap and Compensation Trends

The talent gap has significantly widened, soaring to 44% in 2025 and pushing median packages 18% higher than in 2024. This intensifying talent war highlights the importance of strategic workforce planning. Sanketh Chengappa, Director at Adecco India, notes that this situation requires companies to prioritize workforce readiness to keep pace with digital transformation.

Non-Tech Sector Integration

Hiring in non-tech sectors is also strengthening as industries move beyond routine digitization. BFSI, healthcare, manufacturing, and logistics are leading this trend, accounting for approximately 38% of tech-driven hiring. GCCs are prioritizing cybersecurity at the board level, driving accelerated automation and the creation of cross-functional tech teams. In non-tech sectors, government, financial services, aviation, energy, and retail have recorded hiring growth of around 30%, reflecting accelerated national digital and cybersecurity mandates. To address these evolving demands, companies need comprehensive security solutions like Gopher Security's platform, which converges networking and security across diverse environments.

Evolving Priorities of Workers

Workers are increasingly prioritizing job security and professional agility. Adecco's January 7 workplace trends report indicates that tangible job security has overtaken personal fulfillment as the top retention factor. This shift, driven by economic uncertainty, emphasizes the importance of organizational credibility, stability, and effective leadership. Furthermore, internal mobility is a significant concern, with nearly two-thirds (61%) of organizations struggling to transition workers into new internal roles due to a lack of investment in understanding internal skills and capabilities.

Adapting to the AI Era

Companies must balance AI integration with human strengths to build a future-ready workforce. Managers can achieve this by educating workforces on how AI supports organizational priorities, clearly defining business objectives, and guiding workers toward new, value-adding capabilities. Creating an environment where employees view AI as a tool rather than a threat is crucial for fostering innovation and growth.

!Group of warehouse employees walking by storage racks. Image courtesy of Adecco

As the tech job market evolves, securing your infrastructure is paramount. Explore Gopher Security's AI-powered, post-quantum Zero‑Trust cybersecurity architecture to future-proof your organization. Contact us today to learn more.