India’s Global Capability Center (GCC) ecosystem is undergoing a significant transformation. While tier-1 cities like Bengaluru, Hyderabad, and Pune have long been the cornerstone of GCC operations, emerging cities across India are increasingly drawing attention for their untapped talent pools, lower operational costs, and progressive government policies
A recent report by Instahyre underscores this shift, revealing that cities like Chandigarh, Jaipur, and Indore are witnessing a surge in demand for product talent. These emerging hubs are projected to see 2x to 3x growth in hiring compared to 2024, driven by favorable business environments and strategic government incentives
Here’s a closer look at seven emerging cities that are rapidly positioning themselves as next-generation GCC hubs:
1. Mysuru – The Natural Extension of Bengaluru
Just a few hours from Bengaluru, Mysuru is emerging as a cost-effective yet talent-rich alternative for GCCs. Supported by local engineering and management institutions and a growing transport infrastructure—including a developing airport and expressway connectivity—the city offers both accessibility and affordability
Key Highlights:
- Home to major players like Infosys, Wipro, and L&T Tech
- IBM’s Client Innovation Center delivers AI and hybrid cloud consulting services
- Lower real estate and living costs compared to Bengaluru
2. Lucknow – The AI and Policy-Driven Hub of Uttar Pradesh
With the launch of the Global Capability Centers (GCC) Policy 2024, the Uttar Pradesh government is making a strategic push to attract Fortune 500 companies to cities like Lucknow
Key Highlights:
- Policy incentives: land subsidies, stamp duty waivers, and capital/operational subsidies
- Proposed AI City over 40 acres in Lucknow
- IBM’s upcoming Software Lab in Sushant Golf City for generative AI and agentic AI R&D
3. Coimbatore – The Smart Factory and Engineering Powerhouse
Known for its industrial roots, Coimbatore is leveraging its SME ecosystem and educational institutions to become a center for digital twins, smart manufacturing, and AI-based industrial innovation
Key Highlights:
- Bosch’s 12+ years of investment in local innovation
- Strong base in automotive, aerospace, and medical devices
- SLB (Schlumberger) successfully integrates engineering talent into digital capability building
4. Jaipur – The Pink City with Global Potential
With its strategic location and well-established IT infrastructure, Jaipur is gaining traction among global firms looking for scalable, skilled, and cost-effective talent
Key Highlights:
- SEZs like Mahindra World City and support from agencies like STPI
- Talent pipeline from institutions like MNIT
- Companies like Dotsquares are already operating GCCs here
5. Kochi – Gateway to Kerala’s AI and Innovation Ecosystem
Backed by the Kerala Global Capabilities Centre Framework, Kochi is attracting attention for its AI readiness and strong government focus on emerging tech like quantum computing, photonics, and healthcare innovation .
Key Highlights:
- Infopark hosts over 580 companies including TCS, Wipro, and Cognizant
- 6,200+ startups and innovation initiatives like IEDCs and LEAP
- Strategic focus on inclusive and sustainable tech growth
6. Indore – The Talent-Rich Commercial Capital of Central India
Indore is rapidly becoming a GCC magnet, backed by Madhya Pradesh’s cost-effective business environment, excellent ease of doing business, and rich talent pipeline
Key Highlights:
- 300+ engineering colleges producing 50,000+ tech grads annually
- Industrial land bank, 5 SEZs, and 15 IT parks
- Operating costs less than half of tier-1 cities
7. Chandigarh – The Rising Star of North India’s Tech Scene
With its clean design, educated population, and strong infrastructure, Chandigarh is poised to become a preferred destination for tech innovation and GCC expansion
Key Highlights:
- High literacy and a population of over one million
- Microsoft Innovation Centre supports local tech development
- Thriving startup ecosystem, business-friendly policies, and tax incentives
Conclusion
As India’s GCC landscape matures, organizations are actively seeking cost-efficient, talent-rich, and innovation-ready alternatives beyond the metros. These seven cities—each with their unique strengths—represent the future of distributed innovation, offering fertile ground for the next wave of global digital transformation
Whether it’s Mysuru’s proximity to Bengaluru, Lucknow’s policy-led AI vision, or Coimbatore’s smart manufacturing ecosystem, the future of GCCs in India is no longer confined to the metros —it’s rapidly spreading across the map
Whether it’s Mysuru’s proximity to Bengaluru, Lucknow’s policy-led AI vision, or Coimbatore’s smart manufacturing ecosystem, the future of GCCs in India is no longer confined to the metros —it’s rapidly spreading across the map
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