India’s technology hiring activity showed a short-term recovery in March, with job openings rising even as uncertainty linked to artificial intelligence (AI) continues to influence recruitment strategies across the sector.
Technology job listings in the country increased by 9% month-on-month in March, reaching the highest level seen in more than 3 quarters. The total number of active tech job postings climbed to around 119,000, marking the 2nd consecutive monthly increase after a 6% rise recorded in February.
According to data from the Active Tech Jobs Outlook – India for March 2026 released by a talent solutions firm, the recent growth indicates a temporary rebound in hiring. However, overall demand for technology roles remains relatively weak.
Active hiring demand is still about 19% lower compared to the same period last year. This reflects the broader slowdown in recruitment that has continued since the second half of 2022.
Insights shared by the firm’s cofounder Kamal Karanth suggest that hiring activity during the January–March quarter usually rises either because companies expect stronger demand in the upcoming financial year or because they use unused recruitment budgets before the current fiscal year ends.
Under the current market conditions, the second reason appears more likely. Karanth noted that FY2026 is expected to close as a relatively weak hiring year, prompting companies to utilise remaining recruitment budgets before the fiscal year concludes.
At the same time, the increasing influence of AI on technology and engineering roles has led many organisations to shift hiring priorities. Since January 2026, several companies have focused more on non-technical positions instead of expanding recruitment in core technology roles.
Roles in consulting and advisory, business development, sales and marketing, and project management are currently leading hiring demand. Organisations are waiting for clearer market signals before increasing recruitment in technology and engineering functions.
The report also pointed out a notable change in hiring patterns. Non-technology industries now account for 53% of the active demand for tech and engineering talent. Traditionally, the technology sector has been the largest contributor to both job volumes and employment opportunities in these roles.
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