Finnish telecommunications company Nokia is preparing to implement significant layoffs as part of a restructuring strategy aimed at reducing its global workforce by approximately 14,000 employees. The company, once the largest mobile phone manufacturer worldwide, currently employs over 74,000 people globally, with approximately 17,000 of those based in India. This decision follows a trend of large-scale layoffs across major tech firms, including Amazon, Microsoft, and Google, all of which have recently reduced their workforce. Industry speculation suggests that Meta may also consider cutting around 15,000 jobs.

Decline in Indian Operations

Nokia’s performance in India has reportedly been declining, as reflected in the company’s net sales figures for the fourth quarter of 2025. Net sales fell by 15 percent year-on-year to 393 million euros, roughly equivalent to Rs 4,290 crore. This decline is notable compared to 463 million euros, or approximately Rs 5,000 crore, in sales during the same quarter of the previous year. The restructuring efforts signal an attempt to address operational inefficiencies amid these financial challenges.

Changes in Leadership

In line with the restructuring, Nokia has initiated changes in its leadership within India. Samar Mittal has been designated as the India Country Business Leader, while Vibha Mehra has assumed the role of India Country Manager as of April 1, 2026. Tarun Chhabra, the former head of Nokia India, has departed from his position amidst these organizational adjustments. Mittal’s new role provides him greater operational control over the entire customer portfolio, a shift from the previous leadership structure.

Implications of the New Structure

The recent restructuring is anticipated to lead to workforce reductions across various roles in India, especially affecting common and global positions. The consolidation of Nokia’s Cloud and Network Services with Mobile Networks in 2023 may have resulted in overlapping job functions. The forthcoming layoffs aim to address such duplications, as the company seeks to streamline operations.

Historical Context of Workforce Reduction

Nokia has experienced a steady decrease in its global workforce over recent years. In 2018, the company employed around 103,000 individuals. This number has since declined to approximately 74,100. Within the same timeframe, India’s workforce saw a reduction of about 500 employees. Reports also indicate that additional job cuts are under consideration for teams in Europe, with approximately 1,400 roles being targeted across operations in Greece, Italy, Germany, and France.

Competitors Facing Similar Challenges

Nokia’s competitors in the telecommunications sector are similarly navigating workforce challenges. Ericsson, another major player in the industry, laid off around 5,000 employees last year and may be planning further reductions. The ongoing shifts in the tech landscape reflect broader economic conditions affecting the industry.

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