AI Skills Reshape Fresher Hiring in IT‑BPM Sector
What Happened
India’s IT‑BPM sector is projected to hire up to 2.1 lakh freshers in FY27, up from 1.75 lakh in FY26, though still below the 4 lakh peak in FY22. According to HAN Digital’s Graduate Hiring Outlook 2027, demand is shifting toward AI, ML, data engineering, cybersecurity, and cloud roles, while routine coding and BPO jobs decline. IT services firms will account for about 60% of fresher hires, but growth is concentrated in AI‑adjacent roles. Global Capability Centers (GCCs) are expected to recruit 28% of talent, especially in Tier II/III cities. Salaries for AI‑skilled graduates are rising sharply, with Infosys offering up to ₹21 lakh for specialized engineers, compared to stagnant entry‑level pay of ₹3–4 lakh in traditional ITeS roles.
Key Takeaways
The rebound in fresher hiring is AI‑driven, not a return to bulk coding or BPO recruitment. Graduates with AI, ML, and data engineering portfolios will find the best opportunities, while traditional entry‑level roles continue to decline.