Enhanced AI capabilities may boost opportunities for entry-level positions, according to professionals in the field
Preparing for the Future: Essential Skills for Tech Jobs in India in 2025
As we move towards 2025, the tech industry in India is gearing up for a significant shift. According to recent projections, the demand for entry-level and mid-level tech jobs focusing on Artificial Intelligence (AI), cloud technologies, and cybersecurity is on the rise.
In the realm of AI and Machine Learning, proficiency in AI concepts, machine learning algorithms, and data science is highly sought after. Skills such as software engineering, software development, and the ability to apply AI for automation and smart decision-making across industries like healthcare and finance are in high demand.
When it comes to cloud computing, expertise in major platforms like AWS, Microsoft Azure, and Google Cloud is critical. Key skills include understanding cloud architecture, cloud security, administration of Linux and Windows servers, networking fundamentals, and database management with SQL and NoSQL. Familiarity with DevOps and automation tools such as Jenkins, Docker, Kubernetes, Terraform is increasingly important to build, manage, and secure cloud environments.
Cybersecurity is another area where demand is soaring. Roles securing cloud infrastructure, application security, and ethical hacking are in high demand. Essential skills include identity and access management, encryption, knowledge of security frameworks and DevSecOps practices, secure coding, vulnerability assessment, and certifications like AWS Certified Security Specialty or Certified Cloud Security Professional (CCSP).
In addition to these core skills, programming languages such as Python, Java, and Shell scripting are essential for AI, cloud automation, and security tasks. Soft skills and data literacy, including problem-solving and communication, complement the technical skills and are valuable at both entry-level and mid-level positions.
Practical experience through real-world projects and certifications aligned with the chosen specialization increases employability. The IT sector in India is projected to have a surge in entry-level jobs for applicants with expertise in AI, cloud computing, and cybersecurity. ServiceNow predicts a net increase of 176,000 roles for software application developers, 89,000 roles for web developers, and 67,000 roles for systems software developers.
The industries with the most demand are expected to be telecom, media and tech, manufacturing, and retail, particularly for software application developers. According to Raghav Gupta, Founder of Futurense, within AI, it's more about understanding how to apply models in real-world systems rather than just knowing the theory. He advises employees to consider upskilling in areas such as DevOps, data engineering, or GenAI tools.
KPIT Technologies lists AI knowledge, domain knowledge, the ability to use AI tools, learnability, and critical thinking as key traits for hiring both campus and lateral hires. India is projected to record 3 million tech workers in the next five years, fueled by digital transformation at home, the rise of global capability centres (GCCs), and a pipeline of young tech professionals.
Gupta highlights the shift from task-based roles to problem-solving roles, with companies seeking individuals who can understand business needs, design solutions, and deploy them using the right tools. The skillsets in demand include prompt engineering, explainable AI and bias detection, synthetic data creation, multi-cloud and hybrid cloud management, AI-driven threat detection and response, and post-quantum cryptography readiness.
Displaced workers have multiple pathways forward, including product start-ups, global capability centres with more targeted hiring, and contract work as a short-term alternative. Kishore Patil, CEO and Managing Director at KPIT, emphasizes the importance of understanding how AI generates code and bridging any gaps in its solutions.
Companies are increasingly seeking workers who can work in smaller, faster teams, with product thinking, communication, and the ability to work with ambiguity becoming essential skills. The report also predicts good demand for mid-level jobs such as data engineers. CIEL, a hiring firm, stated that large- and mid-sized companies are actively seeking skillsets in AI and machine learning, cloud technologies, and cybersecurity. The job predictions depend on India churning out an AI-oriented, high-skill workforce.
The article was published on August 4, 2025.
- In the evolving tech industry of 2025, it is crucial for individuals to develop proficiency in cybersecurity, as roles such as securing cloud infrastructure and ethical hacking are highly sought after.
- For those pursuing a career in AI and Machine Learning, understanding how to apply models in real-world systems, in addition to technical skills, can provide a competitive edge in the business sector.
- As the demand for entry-level and mid-level tech jobs in cloud technologies continues to rise, acquiring expertise in platforms like AWS, Microsoft Azure, and Google Cloud, along with skills like cloud security and database management, could be beneficial for one's subscription to a successful career development.
