Job postings in India increased by 3.3% in January 2026, remaining 84% higher than pre-pandemic levels, according to a report. The demand for jobs surged across 90% of occupations, with a notable rise in AI-related postings, which now account for 55% of occupational categories, up from 36% a year ago.
Nearly half of employers reported stable hiring volumes in Q3 FY25–26 compared to the previous quarter, while approximately one-third noted an increase in hiring, the report revealed. Moreover, 77% of employees expressed active or somewhat active interest in seeking new job opportunities, but only a third felt confident about securing one.
Around 14% of job postings in January were related to AI, showing an increase from 12.8% three months earlier, with the highest demand seen in data and analytics at 40%, followed by software development at 29%. The adoption of AI is also expanding into industrial engineering, scientific research, insurance, operations, and logistics.
The report highlighted a growing demand for skills in industrial engineering (22%), scientific research (20%), insurance (20%), operations, logistics, and management roles, with 12.8% of postings mentioning AI in January, up from 9.7% the previous year. Employers are facing challenges in finding candidates with strong problem-solving (44%) and communication skills (38%), indicating a need for practical work readiness rather than a lack of talent.
Job seekers in 2026 prioritize career growth and leadership opportunities (69%), followed by upskilling and higher pay. Job stability was cited as the most crucial factor in career decisions by 54% of candidates. Candidates are increasingly looking for opportunities in mid-sized companies and non-metro cities, influenced by cost of living and quality of life considerations. Full-time roles remain the preferred choice, with 60% of respondents expecting monthly salaries in the Rs 40,000–80,000 range, as per the report.
