Global Capability Centres (GCCs) are moving away from their traditional role as low-cost back-office units and are now emerging as drivers of enterprise strategy, innovation, and artificial intelligence-led transformation.
According to CII estimates, the number of GCCs in India could rise from about 1,800 currently to nearly 5,000 by 2030, generating 20–25 million jobs and contributing close to 3% of GDP. However, analysts caution that sheer expansion will not be enough. Gartner notes that GCCs relying only on cost advantages will not survive the decade, with future growth hinging on AI-driven, innovation-centric models.
AI and Leadership Driving the Shift
“AI, especially Agentic AI, has led to new questions – it is not only how work gets done, but increasingly what work deserves to be done in the first place. This change, from executing tasks to shaping outcomes, is altering the very identity of GCCs,” said Rohan Lobo, partner, Deloitte India. He added that the focus now is on “creating distinctive value at scale, powered by AI and embedded in the enterprise core”.
To respond, companies are embracing agile workforce models built on fluid talent pools, skills-based deployment, and continuous learning. “India’s GCC ecosystem is evolving rapidly, driven by a shift toward digital and skills-first models,” said Debasis Panda, senior vice president, operations and head, TransUnion GCCs. Highlighting centres in Chennai, Pune, Hyderabad and Bengaluru, he noted their role in delivering specialised capabilities across analytics, customer operations, and technology. “Our teams are not only supporting business, they are driving transformative impact through execution excellence and a future-ready talent model,” he said.
Another visible trend is the rise in leadership density. Senior roles once concentrated overseas are increasingly moving to India, making the country an attractive hub for global talent as well. “We are seeing leadership density rise at GCCs, and talent is also moving from countries abroad to India. Openness to leverage talent that amplifies local strengths is needed,” Lobo observed.
Policy and Talent to Shape Next Phase
The country’s large pool of engineers is enabling the shift. More than 1.5 million engineers graduate every year, feeding GCCs’ expansion into AI, data science and product engineering. “India’s GCCs have transformed significantly, shifting from cost-saving back-end support to strategic innovation hubs,” Rajat Khare, director, Distinguished Engineer, Intuit India, said. He added that more than 80% of Indian GCCs are engaged in advanced analytics and product engineering, with the sector projected to exceed $60 billion in revenue by 2025. “To truly become the first choice for global innovation, and not just a cost-effective one, India needs to focus on niche talent development in areas like AI and blockchain, simplify regulatory processes, and invest in stronger regional hubs,” he said.
Industry leaders expect policy support to shape the next phase of growth. Incentives are likely to focus on AI-ready infrastructure, research collaborations, digital skilling and urban development. Purpose-built Digital Economic Zones could provide integrated support for GCCs, service providers and manufacturing hubs, further strengthening India’s position in the global enterprise landscape.