The job market in India is witnessing a significant surge in the demand for professionals in Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) fields, according to a recent report by Naukri.com. The report revealed a remarkable 37 per cent year-on-year growth in AI and ML job opportunities in May, highlighting the industry’s emphasis on specialized talent in these cutting-edge technologies.
Apart from AI and ML, several other sectors like banking, Fast-Moving Consumer Goods, and oil and gas also experienced substantial job growth last month. Overall, white-collar hiring in India increased by 6 per cent compared to April 2024, with cities like Surat and Raipur emerging as hotspots for job seekers and employers alike.
Interestingly, while non-metro cities saw a boost in hiring, major metropolitan areas like Mumbai, Hyderabad, and Bangalore reported a slight decline in job opportunities. This shift suggests a changing employment landscape with growing prospects in smaller cities.
The report also highlighted a rising demand for professionals with extensive experience, with job opportunities requiring over 16 years of experience witnessing a notable 23 per cent growth. Despite sectors like IT, BPO, and education showing slower growth rates, industries like oil and gas, banking, and FMCG displayed robust performances.
The oil and gas sector recorded a 14 per cent growth, banking saw a 12 per cent increase, and the FMCG sector experienced a remarkable 17 per cent rise, indicating resilience and growth in these domains. Additionally, the healthcare sector witnessed an 8 per cent growth, driven by expansion in metro cities, while the travel and hospitality sector also saw an 8 per cent uptick in job opportunities.
However, the report noted a 2 per cent decline in new job opportunities for entry-level professionals, suggesting a tougher job market for fresh graduates and those starting their careers. Despite this dip, the overall job scenario in India reflects a positive trend towards the growing demand for experienced professionals in key sectors of the economy.
