NEW DELHI, Feb 16: As remote IT work expands, it offers increased opportunities for professionals in Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities. Experts emphasize the need for investing in digital infrastructure and upskilling to bridge the gap between talent and global projects.
Furthermore, experts have praised the government’s initiative to establish five National Centres of Excellence for Skilling as a strategic effort to align the skills of youth with the requirements of both domestic and international markets.
Atul Soneja, Chief Operating Officer of Tech Mahindra, noted, “The surge in remote IT roles has significantly broadened prospects for professionals in Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities. This transformation not only enhances earning potential but also supports inclusive growth.”
To maximize this opportunity, Soneja stressed the importance of investing in strong digital infrastructure, providing continuous skill enhancement programs, and creating platforms that connect talent from these regions with global opportunities.
Ganesh Gopalan, co-founder and CEO of Gnani.ai, highlighted that tapping into talent from smaller cities requires substantial investments in digital infrastructure, dependable internet services, and comprehensive upskilling initiatives.
He added that reinforcing work policies, enhancing cybersecurity frameworks, and fostering industry collaborations would further enable professionals in smaller cities to compete on a global scale, thereby contributing to India’s IT expansion.
Pawan Gupta, CTO at SkillsCapital, shared that his company connects professionals with international opportunities via an AI-Powered Talent Cloud platform that launched in April 2024.
“Our aim is to not only fulfill the growing global demand for enterprise software and technology talent but also to position India’s Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities as crucial players in the global tech scene,” Gupta mentioned.
“By empowering individuals in these cities, we are promoting inclusive growth and establishing India as the SkillsCapital of the world,” he explained.
SkillsCapital facilitates individuals’ engagement in high-impact global projects while remaining in their local areas, which not only fosters career advancement but also encourages economic growth in these regions.
“The increasing availability of IT projects in Tier 2 and 3 cities is enhancing earning potential, offering global opportunities without necessitating relocation, improving work-life balance, and revitalizing local economies,” noted Ganesh Gopalan of Gnani.ai.
He further stated that IT professionals gain diverse opportunities, higher incomes, and skill enhancement through exposure to international standards.
Regarding the Rs 500-crore Centre of Excellence for AI in Education proposed in the Budget, Gopalan commented that the AI fund could equip IT professionals with new skills by supporting training initiatives and certifications.
“By investing in upskilling programs, the fund can help close skill gaps, making professionals in Tier 2 and 3 cities more competitive in the global job market,” he remarked.
Soneja from Tech Mahindra added, “Integrating AI into education can significantly enhance learning experiences, personalize educational content, and better prepare students for the changing demands of the job market, effectively addressing the talent shortage in the tech sector.”
“The recently proposed Union Budget for 2025-2026 reflects a transformative vision for India’s workforce and technological landscape,” stated Soneja. (PTI)
