AI-driven job cuts rattle Pune IT hubs, techies

A wave of layoffs across global technology giants has triggered panic in Pune’s IT hubs of Hinjawadi, Kharadi, Magarpatta and Balewadi, with experts linking the cuts to the rapid adoption of generative artificial intelligence (AI) and automation.

- Varad Bhatkhande

Industry trackers said lakhs of professionals have lost jobs globally in 2025, with more cuts expected. Employees in Pune now fear they could be next. Accenture announced over 11,000 terminations in September after earlier trimming 10,000 between February and May. Reports estimate Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) laid off about 12,000 workers in recent months. Microsoft, Intel, Oracle, Meta and Amazon have all announced reductions. Globally, 204 companies cut more than 89,000 tech jobs in 2025.

Companies argue that AI and automation improve efficiency by handling repetitive testing, code generation, content moderation and customer support. While AI is creating new, higher-value jobs, observers say mid-career and operational roles face immediate risk. Analysts added that the pace of internal reskilling and government-backed training will determine how deeply workers are affected.