India has seen a 33% year-on-year surge in diversity hiring, showcasing the growing focus on diversity and inclusion (D&I) policies by corporates, the latest foundit Insights Tracker (fit) for June 2024 by talent platform foundit (formerly Monster APAC & ME), has revealed.
Overall hiring activity has witnessed a 12% yearly increase (June 2024 vs June 2023) and a slight 2% monthly rise (June 2024 vs May 2024) , with the overall hiring index rising from 295 in May 2024 to 302 in June 2024.
“The 33% year-over-year increase in diversity hiring underscores the critical role that D&I policies play in shaping India’s workforce today,” Sekhar Garisa, CEO, foundit said in a statement.
“Looking ahead, we anticipate an even deeper focus on inclusion through initiatives like mentorship and leadership programs for underrepresented groups and bias training at all levels,” added Garisa. “Companies can lead with innovative approaches such as D&I labs or councils to deepen inclusion efforts, and reverse mentorship programs, where young employees from diverse backgrounds mentor senior leaders. With these initiatives, companies can build truly inclusive workplaces and set the stage for a dynamic and equitable workforce in India.”
BFSI and IT-Software & Services industries lead the way in diversity hiring
Industries that have showcased the maximum spike in diversity job postings include BFSI and IT-Software & Services (IT-ITeS) industries, with 30% and 19% share of jobs respectively.
Other industries that have showcased a good share of diverse representation include Healthcare (6%), Internet/E-commerce (4%), and Education (3%).
Metros like Bengaluru, Delhi-NCR, and Mumbai lead the way as diversity hiring hubs, with a good share of jobs dedicated to women, persons with disability, and the LGBTQIA+ community. Within the diversity hiring trend, there is also a noteworthy focus on promoting women to leadership roles through mentorship and specialised training.
Other cities that offer significant job opportunities include Pune, Hyderabad, and Chennai.