India’s GCCs: A Decisive Year Ahead
India’s Global Capability Centres (GCCs) are entering a crucial phase in FY26. After adding more than 600,000 jobs in the last five years, they are gearing up for continued growth and tackling fresh challenges.
A recent report, “Cracking the Growth Code for GCCs in India” by Taggd, in partnership with CII and JLL India, revealed that:
- 48% of GCCs plan to expand their workforce in FY26.
- 19% will maintain hiring levels from the previous year.
- 40% of planned roles are replacement hires—reflecting rising attrition rates.
The Talent Equation: Growth Meets Attrition
India’s GCCs are projected to employ 2.8–4 million professionals by 2030. However, attrition remains a pressing challenge.
“Talent is the edge every future-proof organisation requires. Success now depends on ecosystems that are agile and aligned to purpose.”
— Sarita Fernandes, Senior Director – HR & L&D Transformation, Capgemini
Expanding Beyond Tier-1 Cities
- 60% of GCCs still hire mainly from Bengaluru, Hyderabad, and Pune.
- Nearly 33% are adopting a mixed Tier-1 + Tier-2 approach.
- 13% are exploring Tier-2 cities exclusively (e.g., Visakhapatnam).
Yet, experts note that Tier-2 hubs still face capability gaps in depth of expertise compared to metros.
Real Estate: From Cost Centre to Culture Driver
In 2024, GCCs leased a record 28 million sq. ft. of Grade A commercial space—over one-third of total absorption.
- 78% of new roles are now designed for hybrid work.
- Flexible workspaces have become the second-largest occupier segment.
- Offices are evolving as centres of collaboration, well-being, and culture, not just efficiency.
The Future of Work: AI, DEI, and Gen Z
AI in Hiring
- 48% of GCCs plan to adopt AI-based hiring tools.
- 24% have already deployed AI in recruitment.
- Leaders are balancing efficiency with fairness and candidate experience.
Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DEI)
DEI is moving from compliance to core business strategy. Expansion into Tier-2 cities is also enabling broader access to underrepresented groups.
Gen Z Redefining Work
- Gen Z workers prefer 18–24 month tenures before moving roles.
- Internal mobility is now critical—9 in 10 GCCs expect up to 50% of FY26 hiring to come from within.
The Road Ahead: From Growth to Leadership
The report positions India as the global hub for GCC expansion, but cautions that leadership depends on:
- Attrition management.
- Stronger Tier-2 talent development.
- Responsible AI adoption.
- DEI-driven workplaces.
- Career mobility pathways.
“India’s GCC story is at an inflection point. Success requires moving beyond global playbooks and embracing a uniquely India-first approach.”
— Devashish Sharma, CEO, Taggd
Conclusion
India’s GCCs are not just growing—they are transforming the future of work. By aligning technology, talent, and workplace culture, GCCs can convert today’s hiring momentum into sustainable global leadership.
