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Skills Over Degrees: The New Hiring Landscape in India
Indian employers increasingly prioritize skills and experience over degrees when hiring fresh graduates, reshaping the job market landscape.
Mumbai, India — In a significant shift in hiring practices, Indian employers are now placing a premium on skills and experience rather than merely academic qualifications. This evolution reflects a broader global trend where the traditional degree is no longer the sole indicator of a candidate’s potential. As of 2025, companies across various sectors are increasingly seeking fresh graduates who can demonstrate practical abilities and relevant experience, highlighting a critical pivot in the employment landscape.
This change matters now more than ever as the job market grapples with the implications of rapid technological advancement and a shifting economic environment. With the World Economic Forum projecting that over 85 million jobs may be displaced by automation by 2025, the demand for skilled workers is intensifying. Employers are adapting to these dynamics by reassessing their hiring criteria, focusing on candidates who can contribute immediately and effectively.
According to a recent report by the National Association of Software and Service Companies (NASSCOM), approximately 80% of Indian employers are now emphasizing skills over degrees when evaluating freshers. This statistic underscores a growing recognition that practical experience—whether through internships, projects, or certifications—can often outweigh formal academic credentials. The report also indicates that sectors such as technology, healthcare, and manufacturing are particularly keen on hiring candidates who possess not only technical skills but also soft skills like problem-solving and teamwork.
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Read More →The shift is not merely anecdotal. A survey conducted by the Indian Staffing Federation revealed that 75% of companies are willing to hire candidates without a traditional degree if they can demonstrate relevant skills. This trend is especially pronounced in the tech industry, where companies like Infosys and Wipro have begun to implement skills-based hiring practices. In 2024, Infosys announced a new initiative to recruit talent based on coding assessments rather than academic qualifications, a move that has been met with enthusiasm from the tech community.
Moreover, educational institutions are responding to this demand by revising their curricula to include more hands-on training and skill development programs.
Moreover, educational institutions are responding to this demand by revising their curricula to include more hands-on training and skill development programs. Universities are increasingly collaborating with industry leaders to create programs that equip students with the competencies needed in the workforce. For instance, the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Delhi has partnered with various tech firms to develop courses focused on artificial intelligence and machine learning, ensuring that graduates are job-ready.
However, this shift raises important questions about the future of education and the role of traditional degrees. While skills-based hiring can enhance employability, it also risks marginalizing those who may not have access to the same resources or opportunities to acquire these skills. As the job market evolves, there is a pressing need for policies that ensure equitable access to skill development programs, particularly for underprivileged communities.
Experts argue that a balanced approach is essential. While skills are critical, foundational knowledge remains important. Dr. Anjali Kumar, an education policy expert, emphasizes that “a blend of theoretical understanding and practical skills is crucial for long-term career success.” This perspective suggests that while employers may prioritize skills today, the value of a comprehensive education should not be overlooked.
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Read More →Looking ahead, the implications of this trend extend beyond individual job seekers. Businesses that embrace skills-based hiring may find themselves at a competitive advantage, as they can tap into a broader talent pool. Furthermore, as companies increasingly adopt technology-driven solutions, the demand for continuous learning will grow. Lifelong learning and upskilling will become essential components of career development, prompting both individuals and organizations to invest in ongoing education.
As the landscape of employment continues to shift, it is clear that adaptability will be key. Job seekers must be proactive in acquiring relevant skills and experiences, while educational institutions and employers must collaborate to create pathways that facilitate this transition. The future of work will likely hinge on the ability to blend traditional education with practical skills, ensuring that the workforce is equipped to meet the challenges of a rapidly changing economy.
Lifelong learning and upskilling will become essential components of career development, prompting both individuals and organizations to invest in ongoing education.
In this evolving environment, one question remains: How can individuals best prepare themselves for a job market that increasingly values skills over degrees? Engaging in continuous learning and seeking out practical experiences may be the most effective strategies for navigating this new hiring landscape.
