The employment landscape in India is experiencing a notable transition as the impact of artificial intelligence creates a ripple effect across various sectors. Contrary to expectations, the latest findings from the Naukri JobSpeak report for January 2026 reveal that non-IT industries, rather than information technology, are currently fueling job growth. Sectors such as BPO, hospitality, and real estate have emerged as key contributors, while hiring within the IT sector has begun to decline after a post-COVID surge.

Year-on-Year Hiring Trends

The report indicates an overall white-collar job growth of 3% year-on-year in January 2026, largely powered by non-IT sectors. Significant hiring increases were noted in various areas: BPO sectors recorded a 21% rise, hospitality saw a 15% increase, and real estate grew by 11%. Other industries demonstrating growth included insurance at 7%, oil and gas at 6%, and healthcare at 5%. Conversely, the report shows a downturn in traditional employment drivers, with IT software hiring declining by 2%, banking falling by 15%, and the automotive industry dropping by 8%. Additionally, the fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) sector experienced a 4% decline.

Opportunities for Freshers and Experienced Professionals

The report also highlights an 8% growth in hiring for fresh graduates, with hospitality and insurance leading this growth trend. Simultaneously, there was an equal increase in demand for experienced professionals, particularly in real estate and oil and gas. This trend underlines the expanding opportunities available in non-IT sectors for both newcomers to the workforce and seasoned professionals seeking advancement.

Geographical Hiring Changes

A significant geographical shift in job availability is also evident, as employment opportunities are extending beyond major metropolitan areas. The report indicates strong hiring rates in locations such as Gandhinagar (22%), Raipur (17%), Guwahati (13%), Kochi (10%), and Hyderabad (10%). Additionally, cities like Coimbatore and Jaipur have begun to establish themselves as hubs for fresh hiring, illustrating the expanding job market across the country.

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