Companies are moving beyond bulk recruitment and willing to pay a premium for AI-native talent as routine work gives way to specialised roles
IIM Lucknow completed the summer placements for its 2026-28 PGP and PGP-ABM batches with total success. The average monthly stipend for interns increased marginally from last year's figures, while the highest stipend decreased slightly. Over 600 offers were made, showcasing opportunities in various sectors like consulting and e-commerce. Established and first-time recruiters participated, contributing to a diverse placement process for students.
A recent report indicates that 61 per cent of jobseekers are open to discussing mental health issues. Poor work-life balance was reported as the primary stressor affecting mental well-being at work. Many employees fear career repercussions if they disclose mental health challenges. To address these concerns, clearer boundaries between work and personal time are suggested as effective measures.
TCS expects about 80% of its new hires to have digital and AI-related skills as the company shifts towards more AI-led work. With AI-linked revenue already accounting for around 10% of its business, TCS also expects a greater share of such deals to support margins, while continuing to invest in niche talent, acquisitions and partnerships.
IIM Bangalore’s PGPEM has entered the global top 10 for salary growth in the Financial Times Executive MBA Ranking 2026, with alumni pay rising 102% and average salaries reaching $285,934 three years after graduation. The programme climbed to 64th globally from 72nd last year and ranked second among Indian business schools.
A Parliamentary committee has recommended that district administrations prohibit rallies and public gatherings on examination days. This measure aims to prevent disruptions that could impact candidates' ability to arrive on time. Candidates who arrive late may face entry denial, wasting their preparation efforts due to minor delays. The report also suggests separate time for formalities to minimize disturbances during exams.
Bengaluru is expected to need around 1.4 million AI professionals by 2026, with only 400,000 available currently. This talent gap poses challenges for enterprises and Global Capability Centres as AI adoption grows. Shortages in specialized technology roles have led to salary increases between 30 and 35 percent. Organizations are urged to continuously reskill employees to meet future industry demands.
A recent study highlighted that nearly half of India's startup workforce is facing low levels of wellbeing. Among the surveyed groups, employees reported the poorest outcomes, indicating a worrying trend. Psychological safety at work emerged as a crucial factor influencing wellbeing perceptions among individuals. The findings suggest that many individuals perceive their situation more positively than their assessments reflect.
In 2026, the IIT JEE-Advanced results showed Computer Science Engineering remained the top choice among candidates. IIT Bombay attracted the highest number of top rankers, securing 183 admissions from the top 500. Only two candidates from this group opted for Civil Engineering, while none chose Aerospace Engineering.
Amid rapid technological advancements, college students are embracing online learning platforms like Coursera and Simplilearn to equip themselves with vital AI skills. The urgency for upskilling programs has skyrocketed due to changing industry needs. Educational institutions are proactively collaborating with edtech companies to improve graduates' employability. Yet, students often grapple with learning AI informally, facing hurdles in skill acquisition, leading them to seek organized educational pathways for future career readiness.