Hiring outlook brightens as 79% of HR leaders see new jobs in H2

India’s white-collar job market is set for steady expansion in the second half of 2026, with a large majority of human resources (HR) leaders expecting companies to create new positions, even as businesses navigate rapid advances in artificial intelligence (AI).

According to Naukri’s H2 2026 Hiring Outlook, based on responses from more than 540 senior HR leaders and hiring decision-makers, 97% expect hiring — including both new and replacement positions — to continue during July-December, while 79% foresee the creation of entirely new jobs.