The global technology sector is facing one of its most turbulent periods in recent years, marked by widespread layoffs and slowing recruitment. As companies tighten budgets, professionals across countries are being pushed to reconsider their career choices to meet basic financial needs. In Russia, this disruption has led several Indian migrants — including tech professionals — to take up unconventional jobs to sustain themselves.
One such case is that of Mukesh Mandal, a 26-year-old software engineer from India, who is now working as a street cleaner in St. Petersburg. Despite the nature of the work, Mandal reportedly earns close to Rs 1 lakh per month, highlighting the stark contrast between job titles and earnings amid the global slowdown.
Indian techie joins pilot project for municipal work
According to a report by Russian news outlet Fontanka, Mandal is part of a group of 17 Indian nationals recruited under a pilot initiative to tackle labour shortages in the city. The group has been employed by Kolomyazhskoye, a municipal road maintenance company responsible for street cleaning and infrastructure upkeep in multiple districts of St. Petersburg.
Back in India, Mandal reportedly worked as a software developer. While his professional background has not been independently verified, the report states that he has experience working with advanced digital tools, including artificial intelligence platforms.
“I’ve mostly worked at companies like Microsoft and used new tools like AI, chatbots, GPT and the like. Essentially, I’m a developer,” Mandal told Fontanka.
Company officials said the workers were hired on short-term contracts and were provided assistance to help them settle into their new roles and surroundings.
Earnings, facilities and voluntary shift to manual labour
As per the report, the employer has arranged accommodation, meals, protective gear and daily transportation to work sites for the Indian workers. Special care has also been taken to respect cultural preferences, including food options that avoid beef.
In return, the workers receive a monthly salary of around 100,000 rubles, translating to approximately Rs 1–1.1 lakh.
The group includes individuals from diverse professional backgrounds — ranging from farmers, drivers and small business owners to architects, technicians and event organisers. All workers reportedly joined the programme voluntarily.
“I’m Indian, and for an Indian, the job doesn’t matter. Work is for God. You can work anywhere — in the toilet, on the street, anywhere. This is my duty and responsibility, to do it as well as possible,” Mandal said.
Explaining his decision, Mandal described the move as a practical step amid economic uncertainty. “My plan for the year is to stay in Russia, earn some money and then return to my country,” he added.