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Indian IT Hiring in 2025 Set to Rebound, with AI and Data Science Roles Leading the Job Market

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New Delhi, Dec 24  – The Indian IT hiring landscape is at a critical juncture, shifting from a challenging year to a promising outlook for 2025. The focus on specialised skills, particularly in Artificial Intelligence (AI) and data science, along with a rise in hiring in Tier 2 cities, signals a transformation in the sector.

In 2024, the Indian IT industry saw a 7% decline in hiring compared to the previous year, primarily due to macroeconomic challenges and global uncertainties. However, experts are optimistic that the sector will recover in 2025, driven by improvements in economic conditions and technological advancements.

Sunil Chemmankotil, Country Manager at Adecco India, noted that while Global Capability Centres (GCCs) contributed significantly to the hiring activity, accounting for 52.6% of job openings for tech professionals, they couldn’t fully offset the downturn in the IT services sector. Despite this, there were areas of growth and resilience.

The demand for AI and Machine Learning (ML) roles surged by 39%, reflecting an increasing focus on specialised skill sets. Additionally, hiring in Tier 2 cities grew by 48% in the third quarter of 2024, suggesting a geographic shift towards more diversified job opportunities beyond traditional tech hubs.

Hiring for mid- to senior-level professionals rose by 35%, as companies sought experienced candidates amid market fluctuations. Meanwhile, hiring for fresh graduates remained subdued, with growth rates ranging from 2-15% across various tech sectors, according to TeamLease Edtech data. Many companies delayed onboarding campus hires due to uncertain deal flows, influenced in part by the global political climate surrounding major elections.

Looking ahead to 2025, the outlook for the IT hiring market is promising. According to the ManpowerGroup Employment Outlook Survey (MEOS) for Q1 2025, 53% of the 3,150 employers surveyed in India expect increased hiring, the highest among the 42 countries studied.

Jaideep Kewalramani, COO and Head of Employability Business at TeamLease Edtech, said the delayed hiring of freshers in 2024 is expected to change as large projects are anticipated to return in early 2025. This is expected to benefit large players first, with Tier 2 and 3 companies likely to see an increase in orders as buyer sentiment improves.

As macroeconomic headwinds ease and the results of global elections are finalised, companies are expected to gain confidence in the economic outlook and begin capital investments, stimulating deal flow in early 2025. While initial hiring for fresh graduates may remain subdued, the launch of large projects in early 2025 will likely increase job opportunities for new graduates, Kewalramani added.

Wipro CTO Sandhya Arun emphasized that enterprises will accelerate the integration of AI and other advanced technologies to drive significant business value. “2025 promises to be a year of high-velocity technology disruptions, offering new opportunities and presenting unprecedented challenges,” she said.

The demand for specialised tech roles is expected to surge by 30-35%, driven by increased reliance on emerging technologies. Sanju Ballurkar, President (Experis India), ManpowerGroup India, noted that the shift towards AI and automation in India’s IT sector will continue to impact recruitment, with AI-driven tools and machine learning redefining job roles and creating demand for highly specialised positions.

Overall, the IT sector is expected to rebound with a projected 15-20% growth in job opportunities across various industries, according to Chemmankotil. “Looking ahead, the combined hiring intent from GCCs and IT services will bring much-needed relief to job seekers. Employers are optimistic about recovery and growth as companies adapt to new technological landscapes and market needs,” he said.

“We Should Make Another Attempt”: Punjab Assembly Speaker on Vajpayee’s Unsuccessful India-Pakistan Peace Initiative

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Lahore, Dec 24: “Although the opportunity was missed, we should try again,” said Punjab Assembly Speaker Malik Ahmad Khan, reflecting on Atal Bihari Vajpayee’s 1999 ‘bus yatra,’ a bold initiative by the then Indian Prime Minister aimed at improving India-Pakistan relations.

Vajpayee made a historic bus ride to Lahore on February 19, 1999, and met with Pakistani Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif, where the two leaders signed the Lahore Declaration. This agreement was seen as a breakthrough for peace between the two nations. However, just months later, Pakistani forces’ intrusion led to the Kargil War, halting the peace process.

As Vajpayee’s 100th birth anniversary approaches on Wednesday, Khan, a senior member of Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N), believes that peace between India and Pakistan is still possible. “With Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who follows Vajpayee’s vision, leading India, and Shehbaz Sharif, Nawaz’s brother, in charge of Pakistan, there is a real possibility of restarting the peace process,” Khan remarked. He emphasized that the region’s future depends on fostering free trade and unrestricted movement between the countries, asserting that peace is not only a desirable idea but a necessity for growth and prosperity.

Mohammad Mehdi, another senior PML-N leader from Punjab, described Vajpayee’s visit as a historic moment. He suggested that lasting peace could have followed if not for the Kargil conflict. “The visit came shortly after both India and Pakistan became nuclear powers, and the Western media closely followed Vajpayee’s visit,” Mehdi recalled. “There was excitement within PML-N when Vajpayee arrived. His speech, declaring ‘Pakistan is a reality, and both countries now need to move forward and leave the past behind,’ offered hope to many.”

However, the subsequent Kargil conflict dashed the peace efforts. Mehdi also pointed out that Jamaat-e-Islami (JI) organized protests during Vajpayee’s visit, with some even attacking the Turkish ambassador’s car near Lahore Fort, mistakenly believing it was part of the Indian delegation. Many believe these protests were orchestrated by the military under General Pervez Musharraf’s leadership.

Mehdi remains optimistic about the possibility of back-channel talks between India and Pakistan, despite the current low point in bilateral relations. “Though both countries are currently without ambassadors in each other’s capitals, businesses on both sides are eager to restore ties to boost trade and open up shorter routes through Pakistan to Central Asia and Europe,” he said.

Brigadier (retd.) Farooq Hameed, a political expert, believes the failure of the peace initiative was due to Nawaz Sharif not involving the powerful Pakistani military in the process. “Had Nawaz consulted the military before Vajpayee’s visit, the chances of a successful peace process would have been higher,” Hameed said. He pointed out that Nawaz Sharif has repeatedly shown interest in improving relations with India, including his desire to meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi after returning to Pakistan last year. However, he noted that Nawaz’s younger brother, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, has not expressed similar intentions recently.

Hameed also emphasized the challenges posed by terrorism, which continues to be a major obstacle to reconciliation. “India has frequently accused Pakistan of supporting terrorism, while Pakistan now blames India for terror attacks in Balochistan,” he said.

Despite these hurdles, Hameed remained hopeful, stating that most Pakistanis are not anti-India, and unlike in India, Pakistani politicians do not need to criticize India to win elections.

Cold Wave to Persist Until Dec 26, Says MeT

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Srinagar, Dec 24: The Meteorological Centre Srinagar has announced that cold wave conditions will continue in isolated areas of Jammu and Kashmir until December 26. The weather is expected to remain dry, with light rain predicted over the plains of Jammu and light snow over the higher reaches of the Chenab Valley and Pir Panchal range from late afternoon on December 27 to the forenoon of December 28.

An official from the Meteorological Centre stated that dry weather will prevail from December 24 to 26, with a slight shift in conditions starting December 27. The forecast includes cloudy skies, light rain over Jammu’s plains, and light snow in higher altitudes, especially in the Chenab Valley and Pir Panchal range.

From December 29 to 30, the weather is expected to remain dry. However, there is a chance of cloudy conditions and light snow in isolated higher reaches on December 31. The forecast also predicts cloudy weather with light snow at scattered places in Jammu and Kashmir from January 1 to 3.

The official issued an advisory, urging tourists, travelers, and transporters to exercise caution, as sub-freezing temperatures and icy conditions could impact roads, particularly in important passes and higher reaches. Travelers are advised to follow the guidance of the administration and traffic department.

“Government Mandates Strict School Admission Protocols to Curb Enrollment of Illegal Bangladeshi Migrants”

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Srinagar, Dec 24: The Directorate of Education, Government of National Capital Territory of Delhi, has issued stringent directives to all government, government-aided, and unaided recognized private schools. The guidelines emphasize strict admission procedures and thorough verification of students’ documentation to prevent the enrollment of illegal Bangladeshi migrants.

The Directorate highlighted that each year, several lakh students apply for admission to government schools. In an effort to enhance convenience for students and their parents/guardians, as well as promote transparency, the Directorate has worked towards streamlining the admission process, making it more accessible and user-friendly.

However, the latest order stresses the need for schools to implement rigorous procedures and scrutinize documents to prevent unauthorized enrollment, particularly targeting illegal Bangladeshi migrants. The directive mandates that all heads of government, government-aided, and recognized private schools must ensure that a thorough and careful process is followed when admitting migrant children. This includes proper submission, verification, and handling of all necessary documentation.

Additionally, the Directorate has instructed the District and Zone Education Departments (DDE) to submit weekly reports on such cases to the School Branch at DoE Headquarters.

CEO SSCL Inaugurates Intelligent Traffic Management System

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In a major stride towards modernizing urban management, Srinagar Smart City Limited (SSCL) has launched the Intelligent Traffic Management System (ITMS) through its state-of-the-art Integrated Command & Control Centre (ICCC) at HMT Zainakote. The system was inaugurated by Dr. Owais Ahmed, Chief Executive Officer of SSCL, marking a significant milestone in leveraging technology for better city governance.

Dr. Owais emphasized that ITMS is designed to enhance city governance by enabling data-driven decision-making in daily operations as well as during crises. “This system underscores our commitment to transforming Srinagar into a more efficient and citizen-friendly Smart City,” he stated.

Integrated Command & Control Centre (ICCC): The ICCC serves as the nucleus of smart city operations, seamlessly integrating applications and services across various departments and agencies. It operates 24/7 to provide essential infrastructure, including:

  • Data Centre: Equipped with a secure server farm offering 2PB of storage.
  • Hybrid Cloud Capabilities: Ensuring flexibility and scalability for diverse projects.
  • Networking and Security: Robust systems to safeguard data and connectivity.
  • Dedicated Leased Lines: Enhancing connectivity for uninterrupted operations.

Key Features of ITMS:

  • Real-time traffic monitoring and management.
  • Automated traffic signal control to minimize congestion.
  • Integration with emergency response systems to enhance public safety.
  • Data analytics to inform long-term urban planning.

Benefits to the City: The implementation of ITMS is expected to improve traffic flow, reduce congestion, and enhance safety for both residents and commuters. Additionally, the data collected will play a critical role in strategic urban planning, making Srinagar a more sustainable and efficient city.

The inauguration of ITMS signifies a forward-thinking approach by SSCL to align urban governance with global smart city standards. Residents can look forward to improved quality of life and more streamlined city operations as the system becomes fully operational.

JMC Receives 4,570 Streetlights Through EESL

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Reaffirming the Jammu Municipal Corporation’s (JMC) dedication to enhancing civic amenities within municipal limits, Commissioner Dr. Devansh Yadav today announced a significant step forward in urban development. During an inspection at the Energy Efficiency Services Limited (EESL) store, the Commissioner highlighted ongoing efforts to improve the city’s street-lighting infrastructure.

As part of this initiative, JMC has received 4,570 streetlights from EESL. Dr. Yadav emphasized that these additions are expected to significantly enhance safety and illumination throughout the city of temples. “The improved lighting infrastructure will not only address visibility concerns but also contribute to a safer urban environment,” he stated.

Key Highlights:

  • Infrastructure Upgrade: The new streetlights will bolster the existing lighting setup, ensuring better illumination of roads, public spaces, and other vital city areas.
  • Safety Measures: Enhanced street lighting is anticipated to reduce accidents and crime rates, thereby improving the quality of life for residents.
  • Timely Execution: The Commissioner assured that the installation and repair of the lights will be expedited to achieve the project’s goals efficiently.

Future Plans: Dr. Yadav reiterated JMC’s commitment to making Jammu a more livable and modern city. He added that this project is one among several initiatives aimed at improving civic amenities. Residents can expect further advancements in urban infrastructure in the near future.

The Commissioner also urged citizens to cooperate with the Corporation in maintaining the new facilities and to report any issues promptly to ensure timely resolution.

Minister Javed Rana Stresses Year-Round Green Fodder Supply

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Minister for Jal Shakti, Forest, Ecology & Environment, and Tribal Affairs, Javed Ahmad Rana, today called for formulating comprehensive plans to ensure a year-round supply of green fodder. Chairing a meeting at the Civil Secretariat to review the functioning of the Agrostology department, the Minister emphasized the urgent need for enhanced fodder production and pasture improvement to meet the growing demand.

Key Discussions:

  • The Minister highlighted the adverse effects of unregulated grazing on natural regeneration and the decline of palatable grass species.
  • Stressing the importance of fodder productivity, Javed Rana urged a shift towards planting palatable grasses and tree species that offer high-quality fodder.
  • Priority areas identified include regions with high cattle density and the migratory routes of nomadic graziers.

Minister’s Remarks: Javed Rana underscored the significance of Agrostology in promoting sustainable fodder production. “We must focus on strategies that reduce dependency on forests while ensuring adequate fodder availability. This will help preserve natural ecosystems and support livestock,” he stated.

The Minister also called for:

  • Advanced Initiatives: Utilizing modern methods to increase fodder yield.
  • Research and Development: Investing in studies to develop species with better nutritional profiles and resilience.
  • Stakeholder Collaboration: Engaging local communities, graziers, and agricultural experts to implement sustainable fodder practices.

Conclusion: The meeting concluded with actionable directives aimed at enhancing fodder production, improving pastures, and reducing the pressure on forests. The Minister reiterated the need for robust, year-round planning to sustain livestock and support the livelihood of graziers and farmers.

DM Jammu Chairs District Level Border Committee Meeting

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District Magistrate Sachin Kumar Vaishya today chaired a review meeting of the District Level Standing Committee on Security along the Indo-Pak border. The meeting was attended by Senior Superintendent of Police Joginder Singh, along with officers from various security agencies and defense forces.

The discussions focused on strengthening inter-agency coordination and enhancing continuous monitoring mechanisms to ensure the safety and security of the border regions. Participants deliberated on strategies to address emerging security challenges and improve response efficiency.

Key Points Discussed:

  • Importance of cohesive collaboration among security and defense agencies.
  • Implementation of advanced surveillance technologies for effective border monitoring.
  • Strengthening communication channels to facilitate timely information sharing.

District Magistrate Vaishya emphasized the criticality of proactive measures to safeguard border areas and reiterated the commitment of the administration to uphold peace and security in the region. The meeting concluded with actionable plans aimed at fortifying border defenses and fostering a secure environment for residents of the region.

 

Mega Awareness Camp on Poshan Abhiyaan Held in Udhampur

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A one-day mega awareness camp under the Poshan Abhiyaan and allied schemes of the Poshan Department was inaugurated today by Mission Director Poshan, Mr. Kishori Lal Sharma, at the District Programme Office (DPO) complex, Udhampur. Alongside, the Mission Director also inaugurated a three-day training programme for the fourth batch of the Udhampur Poshan Project under the initiative “Poshan Bhi Padhai Bhi.”

The event was organized by District Programme Officer Subash Chander Dogra, aiming to address the persistent challenge of malnutrition through the implementation of Poshan Abhiyaan. This flagship program seeks to create a strategic shift in nutrition content and delivery mechanisms by fostering a convergent eco-system that promotes health, wellness, and immunity among the population.

The awareness camp witnessed enthusiastic participation from a diverse audience, including a large number of Anganwadi workers, supervisors, Child Development Project Officers (CDPOs), and local residents.

To engage and inform the attendees, Anganwadi workers presented thought-provoking skits and songs emphasizing the eradication of malnutrition from society. The creative performances served as an effective medium to highlight the critical message of the importance of nutrition and health.

Key Highlights of the Event:

  • Objective: To raise awareness about Poshan Abhiyaan’s goals and initiatives aimed at combating malnutrition.
  • Activities: The event included skits, songs, and interactive sessions that provided insights into adopting practices that nurture health and wellness.
  • Training Programme: A three-day training initiative, “Poshan Bhi Padhai Bhi,” was launched to empower Anganwadi workers with the necessary skills and knowledge for effective program implementation.

Mission Director’s Address: Mr. Kishori Lal Sharma, in his inaugural address, highlighted the importance of collective efforts in addressing malnutrition. He applauded the efforts of Anganwadi workers and local authorities in spreading awareness and implementing the program at the grassroots level. He further emphasized the need for active community participation to ensure the success of Poshan Abhiyaan.

The event concluded with a pledge by all attendees to work diligently towards eradicating malnutrition and building a healthier, more resilient society.

 

Manu Bhaker Scripts History with Two Olympic Bronze Medals in Paris

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The Paris Olympics proved to be a landmark event for Indian shooting, with Manu Bhaker making history by clinching two bronze medals, becoming the first Indian woman athlete to achieve this feat at the quadrennial event.

Manu’s Stellar Performances
Manu showcased her prodigious talent by securing a podium finish in the 10m air pistol event and then teaming up with Sarabjot Singh to win another bronze in the 10m mixed team event. Her incredible achievements ended India’s decade-long Olympic medal drought in shooting and set a new benchmark for excellence in the sport.

The 21-member Indian shooting contingent in Paris returned with three bronze medals, including a brilliant third-place finish by Swapnil Kusale in the 50m rifle 3-positions event.

From Tokyo Disappointment to Paris Glory
For Manu, the Paris triumph was a redemption story. After a heart-breaking exit at the Tokyo Games due to a pistol malfunction, Manu stepped onto the Châteauroux range with unwavering confidence, delivering a champion’s performance.

Her coach, Jaspal Rana, played a pivotal role in her success. Despite facing challenges, including restrictions on coaching her directly due to National Rifle Association of India (NRAI) protocols, Jaspal guided Manu from the spectators’ gallery. Manu described him as a “father figure” who bolstered her confidence during tough times.

Sarabjot and Swapnil Shine Bright
Sarabjot Singh, overcoming a career-threatening injury, joined Manu as a joint bronze-medallist in the mixed team event. His remarkable recovery and resilience highlighted the importance of perseverance in sports.

Meanwhile, Swapnil Kusale gave his coach, Deepali Deshpande, a moment of redemption by winning India’s first-ever Olympic medal in the 50m rifle 3-positions event. Deepali, once criticized for India’s poor performance at the Tokyo Olympics, found vindication through Swapnil’s historic feat.

Near Misses and Promising Futures
The Indian contingent also faced heartbreaks in Paris, with several shooters narrowly missing medals. Arjun Babuta finished fourth in the men’s 10m air rifle, and the mixed skeet team of Maheshwari Chauhan and Anant Jeet Singh Naruka lost a nail-biting bronze medal match to China.

Manu herself came close to a historic hat-trick, finishing fourth in the women’s 25m sports pistol event after a valiant effort.

Selection Controversies Cloud the Lead-Up
The road to Paris was fraught with controversies over the NRAI’s Olympic Selection Trials (OST). Litigation over selection criteria and discontent among shooters marred the pre-Olympic phase. Top shooters like Rudrankksh Patil and Tilottama Sen missed out on Olympic spots despite their stellar performances, raising questions about the federation’s policies.

A Promising Future for Indian Shooting
Despite the challenges, the Paris Olympics marked a significant milestone for Indian shooting. The performances of Manu, Sarabjot, Swapnil, and others have reignited hope for even greater success at the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.