The Indian IT industry is experiencing an unprecedented shake-up as giants like TCS and Infosys implement significant workforce reductions despite rising revenues. TCS recently announced cutting about 2% of its workforce (over 12,000 jobs), while Infosys has drastically slowed down fresher onboarding, with TCS slashing 2% of its global workforce impacting about 12,000 jobs.
This isn’t your typical cost-cutting exercise during tough times. Instead, it represents a fundamental transformation driven by automation, AI adoption, and evolving client demands that’s reshaping how Indian IT companies operate.
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TCS Numbers Tell a Startling Story
This is the first of its kind in the Indian IT services industry when so many people will be laid off, with layoffs primarily affecting middle and senior grade employees throughout FY 2025-26.
| Company | Job Cuts | Workforce Impact | Primary Reason |
|---|---|---|---|
| TCS | 12,000+ employees | 2% of global workforce | Skill mismatch & automation |
| Infosys | Hiring freeze | Reduced fresher onboarding | Strategic restructuring |
| Wipro | Targeted cuts | Department-specific | Operational efficiency |
| Industry Total | 25,000+ (estimated) | 3-4% sector impact | AI transformation |
Why This Isn’t About Financial Distress
Contrary to traditional layoff patterns, these cuts aren’t happening during revenue declines. TCS CEO K Krithivasan clarified that job cuts were not driven by AI productivity gains but were happening because of a “skill mismatch,” stating “We are still hiring and training people, but in some cases, redeployment is not possible”.
The reality is more complex: companies are experiencing revenue growth while simultaneously reducing headcount, indicating a structural shift rather than cyclical downturn.
The Real Drivers Behind IT Layoffs
Automation Revolution: Legacy system maintenance and manual testing roles are becoming obsolete as AI-powered tools handle these tasks more efficiently.
Client Demand Evolution: Customers now expect AI-integrated solutions, cloud-native applications, and advanced analytics rather than traditional IT services.
Skill Misalignment: According to the World Economic Forum, 50% of all employees will need reskilling by 2025, as technology evolves and adoption increases multifold.
The AI Factor: Friend or Foe?
While TCS leadership denies AI’s direct role in layoffs, the writing is on the wall. TCS is accelerating its shift toward AI, automation, and cloud-based solutions, with departments dealing with legacy systems and manual testing most affected.
The irony? Companies are investing billions in AI while reducing their human workforce, creating a paradox where technological advancement comes at the cost of traditional employment.
Industry-Wide Implications
TCS reported a 0.59% sequential revenue decline in the June 2025 quarter—the weakest among the top five IT firms, with revenue growing at just 0.34% CAGR in dollar terms compared to 0.85% for Infosys.
This performance gap suggests that companies adapting faster to AI-driven models may outperform traditional service providers.
What This Means for IT Professionals
The current scenario presents both challenges and opportunities:
Immediate Concerns:
- Job security in traditional roles diminishing
- Increased competition for remaining positions
- Need for rapid skill transformation
Long-term Opportunities:
- Higher demand for AI/ML specialists
- Premium for hybrid technical-business skills
- Growth in emerging technology domains
The Reskilling Imperative
NTT DATA’s GenAI report finds that 84% of C-suite executives in India anticipate major transformations in 2025 due to GenAI integration. This statistic underscores the urgency for workforce transformation.
Leading companies are investing heavily in reskilling programs, recognizing that human capital remains crucial despite automation. The focus has shifted from replacing humans to augmenting human capabilities with AI.
Global Context and Future Outlook
Two-thirds of firms in India plan to tap into more diverse talent pools to fill new tech roles, according to the World Economic Forum’s Future of Jobs Report 2025.
The Indian IT sector’s transformation mirrors global trends where traditional service models give way to platform-based, AI-enhanced offerings. Companies surviving this transition will likely emerge stronger and more competitive.
For comprehensive analysis of IT industry trends and workforce development, the sector continues evolving rapidly. Stay informed about career transitions in technology to navigate these changes successfully.
The current upheaval, while painful for affected employees, represents a necessary evolution. Companies that successfully balance human expertise with AI capabilities will define the next phase of India’s IT dominance globally.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Are TCS and Infosys layoffs primarily due to AI replacing human workers?
A: Not directly. TCS CEO K Krithivasan clarified that the layoffs are mainly due to “skill mismatch” rather than AI productivity gains. However, the underlying cause is the industry’s shift toward AI, automation, and cloud-based solutions, making certain traditional IT roles obsolete. Companies are still hiring, but they need different skills than what many current employees possess.
Q: How can IT professionals protect themselves from future layoffs in this AI-driven transformation?
A: Focus on reskilling in high-demand areas like AI/ML, cloud computing, cybersecurity, and data analytics. The World Economic Forum predicts 50% of employees will need reskilling by 2025. Develop hybrid skills combining technical expertise with business acumen, as these roles are harder to automate. Stay updated with emerging technologies and consider certifications in AI, DevOps, and cloud platforms to remain relevant in the evolving IT landscape.
