India’s GCC workforce set to hit 3 million by 2030, says FirstMeridian

India’s Global Capability Center (GCC) sector is on a transformative path, expected to grow into a $110 billion market by 2030. According to staffing and workforce solutions firm FirstMeridian Business Services, the sector is projected to employ 3 million professionals by the end of the decade, with over 1.5 lakh new jobs to be created by 2026.

Notably, around 1 lakh of these roles will be entry-level positions for fresh graduates, marking a significant boost for the country’s youth employment landscape.

The sector’s rapid expansion is being fueled by India’s diverse talent pool, strong digital infrastructure, and rising demand for advanced skills in fields like artificial intelligence, machine learning, data science, and cybersecurity.

As global companies increasingly turn to India to support core operations, the GCC sector is evolving from traditional back-office functions to playing a more strategic role in areas such as engineering, customer experience, and cybersecurity.

Tier-two cities are also emerging as key drivers in this growth story. Offering cost-effective infrastructure, lower attrition rates, and a burgeoning talent base, these cities are expected to contribute to 30% to 40% of the new GCC jobs in the next three to four years.

India’s changing job market is reflecting this shift, with new roles emerging in AI ethics, robotics, XR development, and DevOps. Industries beyond tech—including retail, healthcare, financial services, and travel—are also playing a role in expanding employment, showcasing the sector’s multidimensional impact.

Women now make up 40% of India’s GCC workforce, and with ongoing efforts to boost diversity, equity, and inclusion, gender representation is expected to improve further by up to 5% in the coming years.

“The GCC sector in India has evolved from a scalable industry to one of strategic importance,” said Sunil Nehra, CEO – IT Staffing, FirstMeridian Business Services. “As multinational companies redefine the skills they need from Indian talent, the country has become a thriving ecosystem supported by extensive upskilling programs, policies, and development initiatives from metro areas to tier-two cities.”

Despite the optimistic outlook, the sector faces challenges such as rising salary expectations, skill gaps in emerging technologies, cybersecurity threats, and regulatory hurdles. Addressing these issues will require targeted policy reforms—such as streamlined SEZ rules, stronger data protection laws, and improved digital infrastructure.

Still, with focused investments in training and policy alignment, India stands poised to solidify its position as a global hub for capability centers, offering long-term growth for both businesses and the workforce.