India Strengthens Position as a Global AI Hub with GCC Expansion

India is emerging as a major global hub for artificial intelligence, driven by the expansion of Global Capability Centres (GCCs) and the availability of a large pool of technology professionals. The country’s role is expanding beyond data processing and support services into advanced areas such as application-layer AI, model engineering and chip design. According to CBRE’s latest report, ‘The Policy Advantage – Powering India’s GCC Growth’, India has become the world’s second-largest country for AI job creation. More than 1,200 GCCs in India are providing AI/ML services, while over 250 have established Centres of Excellence focused on AI/ML research and innovation. More than 2.5 lakh skilled professionals are currently working in AI-related roles across these GCCs.

Nearly 94% of India’s 2.36 million GCC jobs are concentrated in six major cities. Bengaluru accounts for the largest share at 34%, followed by Hyderabad at 14%. GCC professionals in Hyderabad are engaged in sectors including IT, life sciences, engineering, banking, finance and insurance. Pune accounts for 13%, Chennai 12%, Mumbai 11% and Delhi 10%. Several states are targeting more than 1.1 million additional jobs and over 1,300 new GCCs by 2031 through dedicated GCC policies. However, the report notes that senior-level professionals currently account for only 19% of India’s AI talent pool. Developing advanced research capabilities and strengthening the pipeline for senior leadership roles are therefore expected to remain key priorities for the technology sector.