TCS Layoffs 2025
The Indian IT industry is buzzing with shocking news about Tata Consultancy Services (TCS). Headlines claimed that as many as 30,000 to 40,000 employees could lose their jobs, sparking fear among tech professionals. The Union of IT & ITES Employees (UNITE) even staged a protest in Chennai, accusing TCS of mass layoffs.
But is this really the truth? Or is it an exaggerated claim? Let’s dig deeper into the facts, the company’s response, and what this means for the future of IT jobs.
Union’s Big Allegations: Is a Layoff Storm Coming?
UNITE has strongly alleged that TCS is conducting illegal layoffs. According to the union, thousands of experienced mid-level and senior employees are being replaced with freshers at significantly lower salaries—almost 80–85% less than the original pay.
During the protest in Chennai, union leaders held placards and banners demanding job security and justice for employees. UNITE’s Janani even claimed that as many as 30,000 to 40,000 employees could lose their jobs in this restructuring move.
The union argues that despite TCS reporting a revenue of ₹2.55 lakh crore, an operating profit margin of 24.3%, and a ₹45,588 crore dividend payout, the company is cutting jobs to maximize profits. Instead of layoffs, they suggest TCS should invest in upskilling and reskilling employees to prepare them for future technologies.
TCS Responds: What’s the Real Number?
TCS has officially rejected the union’s claims, calling them “incorrect and misleading.” According to the company, the actual layoffs are limited to just 2% of its workforce.
Since TCS employs over 600,000 people globally, 2% would mean around 12,000 employees—still a large number, but nowhere close to the 30,000–40,000 being claimed.
The company explained that these layoffs are part of a strategic transformation aimed at creating a “future-ready organization.” They are shifting focus to cloud computing, AI, and digital transformation, while phasing out certain legacy roles. TCS also stated that employees impacted will receive severance packages and transition support.
Interestingly, TCS clarified that this restructuring is not because of AI replacing jobs, but due to a skill mismatch where some employees’ expertise no longer fits the company’s evolving needs.
What This Means for the IT Industry?
The TCS layoffs 2025 controversy highlights a much larger concern in the IT industry: the growing gap between existing skills and emerging technologies.
For companies – Rapid changes in AI, cloud, and automation mean they must constantly adapt to stay competitive.
For employees – Long-serving professionals feel anxious about job security and often fear being replaced by cheaper or more tech-savvy talent.
For the industry – This debate raises questions about the responsibility of IT giants toward their workforce and the importance of reskilling programs.
The protests show that this isn’t just about numbers; it’s about people’s careers and livelihoods. While TCS insists layoffs are limited, the anxiety among IT workers reflects a deeper fear about the uncertain future of tech jobs in India.
Key Takeaway: Numbers vs. Human Impact
The real TCS layoffs 2025 number (12,000) is much smaller than the 30,000+ alleged by UNITE, but the debate has opened up an important conversation. The IT industry is evolving rapidly, and while companies focus on innovation, they must also ensure they support their existing workforce.
For IT professionals, this is a reminder to constantly upskill in areas like AI, cloud, and cybersecurity to remain relevant in an ever-changing job market.
At the end of the day, this story isn’t just about TCS—it’s about the future of India’s IT workforce and the balance between profit and people.
