NEW DELHI: Hiring intentions in India declined slightly heading into the third quarter of 2025, with employers reporting a Net Employment Outlook (NEO) of 42%, according to the latest ManpowerGroup Employment Outlook Survey. The results, based on responses from 3,146 employers across India during April 2025, show the Outlook declining by one point from the previous quarter while improving by twelve-points year-over-year. Despite the quarterly dip, the Indian hiring Outlook remains very animated. This optimism is driven by strong growth in the private services sector and expectations of economic benefits stemming from shifts in global trade dynamics-especially in relation to China. Amid these favorable conditions, India continues to position itself as a key player in the global employment landscape.
“As we enter the third quarter of 2025, India’s employment Outlook remains robust, with a NEO of 42% – among the highest globally. Despite a slight dip from the previous quarter, the 12-point year-on-year gain highlights sustained employer confidence and growth momentum in the labor market,” said Mr. Sandeep Gulati, Managing Director, ManpowerGroup India and Middle East. “This optimism is driven by strong hiring intent in sectors such as Information Technology, Energy & Utilities, and Financial Services, where companies are actively expanding and accelerating digital transformation. Even amid global geopolitical uncertainty and trade disruptions, Indian employers are staying proactive – 82% report increased investment in automation, while 67% are evolving their workforce strategies to meet changing skill demands.”
He further added, “We are seeing a clear shift from volume hiring to building agile, digitally skilled teams. As organizations adapt to this new world of work, resilience and transformation will be key. At ManpowerGroup, we believe India is well-positioned to lead in the region, and employers who invest in innovation and inclusive talent strategies will be best placed to thrive in the long term.”
Used internationally as a bellwether of labor market trends, the NEO is calculated by subtracting the percentage of employers who anticipate reductions in staffing levels from those who plan to hire.