In 2024, India’s net migration rate stood at -0.323 per 1,000 people, with a 1.82 per cent drop in net outflow from last year. This indicates a growing trend of talent choosing to stay in the country with economic opportunities being generated, industry experts said.

Neeti Sharma, the CEO of TeamLease Digital, observed that by 2030, India’s GCC industry will play a more strategic role in global operations, with the workforce expected to exceed 2.5 million. India offers up to 40 per cent lower operational costs than Eastern Europe and continues attracting international corporations seeking cost efficiency without compromising quality.

“The notion of migrating to first-world countries for better opportunities is rapidly changing as India becomes a hub for global innovation and talent. With GCCs evolving into strategic centers, Indian professionals now have access to cutting-edge projects, globally competitive salaries, and a quality of life comparable to what they might find abroad. The reasons that once fueled the “American Dream”—higher pay, challenging work, and better living standards—are now increasingly met in cities like Bangalore and Hyderabad,” Vikram Ahuja, the co-founder of ANSR, and CEO of Talent500 explained.

Indian talent often leads transformative work while counterparts abroad manage ongoing operations. This shift is also driven by a global talent deficit, particularly in STEM fields, where Indian professionals are stepping up to fill the gap.

The established GCC model has also made India’s workforce essential to the global economy. However, sustaining this momentum requires the country to remain a business-friendly destination, ensuring ease of operations for companies while fostering trust and collaboration. “This is no longer about following opportunities abroad; it’s about leading global change from right here in India,” he said.

The rise of GCCs in India is also changing companies’ approach to global hiring and talent mobility. An increase in hiring from India’s skilled workforce to fill roles locally also enables ease of mobility or relocation. There is greater opportunity for internal transfers and companies may require to relocate talent for specialized roles, leadership positions, and jobs that require global exposure.

“Small and medium businesses are increasingly growing alongside the booming GCC ecosystem. These businesses are also turning into global businesses faster, with more opportunities as tech, payments, overseas employment, and mobility have become easier. Mobility within India is also growing, with more professionals working remotely from second and third-tier cities. These changes are creating a more dynamic landscape for talent movement, offering incredible opportunities both within India and abroad,” said Sumit Sabharwal, Country Leader, Deel India.

Alongside, Indian professionals are sought after worldwide for various skilled roles. According to TeamLease Digital, in West Asia, 8.7 million Indians are employed across construction, manufacturing, and hospitality.

In the US, Indians account for 75 per cent of H-1B visa holders in IT and tech, while Indian-origin doctors represent 20 per cent of international medical graduates. Singapore’s demand for tech talent has attracted over 200,000 Indian professionals. Japan, anticipating a shortage of 180,000 software engineers by 2030, is also leveraging India’s expertise in AI, robotics, and software development.