New Delhi, Nov 11 (PTI) – A new India Skills Report reveals a significant trend in the Indian IT and gig workforce, with over 40% leveraging AI tools for various tasks, including automation, analytics, and creative content generation. This embrace of AI is contributing to a notable surge in employability, which has reached 56.35% in 2026.
The 2026 India Skills Report, jointly released by ETS, CII, AICTE, AIU, and Taggd, highlights the evolving dynamics of India's workforce and its increasing readiness for the future. The report's findings indicate a decisive shift towards a skills-first economy, propelled by AI adoption, digital fluency, and global mobility.
India's overall employability has seen a steady increase, climbing from 46.2% in 2022 to 56.35% in 2026. This positions India as a preferred source of skilled talent on the global stage, reinforcing its growing influence in the international labor market.
The report also indicates that over 90% of employees in India are already utilizing generative AI tools, demonstrating rapid digital integration across various sectors. India commands 16% of the world's AI talent, a number that is projected to reach 1.25 million professionals by 2027.
Furthermore, the gig and freelance economy in India is experiencing substantial growth. The report estimates that this workforce will reach 23.5 million by 2030, with project-based hiring increasing by 38% in the past year. This expansion reflects the changing preferences of the workforce and the increasing availability of flexible work opportunities.
Several sectors are leading the hiring surge, including technology, BFSI (banking, financial services, and insurance), manufacturing, renewable energy, and healthcare. The skills most in demand include AI, data analytics, cloud computing, and cybersecurity, highlighting the importance of digital skills in today's job market.
Among the states, Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, and Karnataka have recorded the highest levels of employability in 2026. These states are at the forefront of providing opportunities and fostering a skilled workforce.
Nirmal Singh, CEO of Wheebox ETS and chief convenor of the India Skills Report, stated that the burgeoning parallel workforce is reshaping the future of work, starting in India. He emphasized that India stands at the intersection of scale, skill, and technology, and the next decade will solidify its leadership in global talent mobility through AI-integrated skilling and internationally recognized certifications.
The 2026 India Skills Report is based on insights gathered from over 100,000 candidates who took the Global Employability Test (GET), along with responses from seven key industries. The report's theme, "The Future of Work: Gig Workforce, Freelancing, AI-Supplemented Workforce, Remote Work & Entrepreneurship," encapsulates the significant transformations occurring in the Indian workforce.
