Hiring for white-collar jobs surges 32% in January, green jobs see 41% growth

NEW DELHI: Hiring for white-collar jobs in India witnessed a 32% year-on-year surge in January 2025, driven by sectors such as semiconductors, energy, waste management, and manufacturing, according to the latest foundit Insights Tracker report.The hiring growth is attributed to rising consumer demand, strategic incentives from the Union Budget 2025-26, and an increasing focus on sustainability initiatives.Green jobs lead the wayThe report highlights a significant 41% rise in green jobs over the last two years, propelled by expanding clean energy initiatives and global net-zero targets. Bengaluru, Delhi, and Pune have emerged as key hubs for these roles, with specialized skills in energy auditing and sustainability strategy in high demand.The demand for green jobs is projected to rise another 11% in 2025, fueled by growth in renewable energy, electric vehicles (EVs), and green hydrogen projects."India's job market continues to grow at a strong pace, with hiring surging across key industries. Sectors like travel, retail, and green jobs are seeing sustained momentum, reflecting business confidence and evolving industry priorities," said Pranay Kale, Chief Revenue and Growth Officer at foundit.Government policies, particularly budget provisions supporting renewable energy and sustainability-focused industries, are playing a crucial role in this hiring boom.Retail, travel & tourism sectors also see growthThe travel and tourism sector recorded a 17% increase in hiring in January, driven by rising consumer demand and government initiatives. Aviation, luxury tourism, and eco-tourism are seeing new job opportunities, with emerging roles in AI-driven travel technology.Similarly, the retail sector saw a 24% year-on-year hiring surge, boosted by increasing consumer spending and digital transformation. This has led to growing demand for professionals skilled in supply chain management, customer experience, and AI-driven retail analytics.As hiring expands beyond metro cities, Tier II hubs are also emerging as employment centers, reinforcing India’s transition to a future-ready, greener economy, the report added.