India’s Global Capability Centres are entering a decisive phase as artificial intelligence redraws the rules that once defined their value. For years, scale and efficiency formed the core promise of these centres. Since the GPT moment 3 years ago, that advantage has steadily weakened. As AI began to compress traditional gains in speed and cost, GCCs were pushed to confront a tougher question. When efficiency can be automated, what truly sets them apart?
As a new year approaches, conversations with leaders’ recruiters and industry experts reveal how this transition is unfolding and whether its pace matches the rapid acceleration of AI adoption globally. The findings shape the heart of this week’s cover story. Some GCCs have evolved into strategic partners for global headquarters while others remain anchored in early maturity stages. The gap between ambition and execution is now clearer than ever.
Despite broader challenges in the technology job market, GCCs continue to stand out. The year began on a positive note with global companies expanding hiring at their India centres. These centres recorded 7 percent growth compared to a year earlier, making them one of the few bright spots in an otherwise slowing hiring landscape. This momentum highlights the growing confidence of global firms in India based capability centres even as the industry undergoes structural change.
The focus on GCC evolution extends beyond hiring. A new podcast series has been launched where a senior journalist speaks with GCC leaders shaping advanced technology strategies and aligning them with global goals. The first episode features Molyama Kromah of bp who leads a centre of expertise delivering engineering and technical support worldwide. Discussions also explore the cultural shift required for AI adoption with leaders from HealthEdge and Allegis Group India stressing the need for confidence leadership backing and the right culture. Another opinion piece examines the rise of Nano GCCs and how smaller centres could drive the next wave of growth. This trend presents an opportunity for states and cities beyond traditional hubs as companies seek specialised talent with easier setup and governance. The issue also revisits 5 standout stories from last year that trace the journey so far and what lies ahead for GCCs in India.
Also read: Viksit Workforce for a Viksit Bharat
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