As the global IT sector undergoes major changes, India remains a key hub for talent, effectively navigating the industry’s shifts. In the June quarter, Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) added 5,452 employees, bringing its total headcount to 606,998. The company plans to hire around 40,000 freshers this financial year, maintaining its strong recruitment drive.
Milind Lakkad, TCS’s CHRO, emphasized India’s enduring appeal for talent despite diverse skill requirements and geopolitical challenges elsewhere.
“India is the destination for talent, and that is not going to change in the near future,” Lakkad affirmed. He emphasized The company’s initiatives to bridge academia-industry gaps through extensive reskilling and upskilling programs, uniquely positioned at scale. “I am very confident about a positive way forward for Indian talent,” Lakkad added, optimistic about future achievements.
Addressing concerns about AI’s impact on employment, Lakkad reassured that TCS employees can adapt to technological changes. TCS has implemented salary increases ranging from 4.5% to 7%, with top performers receiving 10-12%. The Elevate Runway program further incentivizes career growth, especially for junior employees, by offering accelerated learning paths that can double their compensation.
The program, open to employees at all levels, focuses on both financial rewards and career advancement aligned with personal aspirations. Over 400,000 employees have enrolled, showcasing its popularity and impact. Additionally, TCS’s Mid-Level Transformation (MLT) program helps employees acquire market-relevant skills for new roles within the company.
TCS recently updated its variable pay policy to include office attendance as a key factor, reflecting evolving work dynamics. Lakkad noted that about 70% of employees have returned to the office, and the policy change aims to maintain discipline and foster a positive workplace environment. “The idea is not punitive but to incentivize office attendance positively,” Lakkad clarified.
As India’s IT sector continues to evolve, TCS’s proactive measures highlight its commitment to nurturing talent and adapting to global technological shifts, reinforcing its industry leadership.
