India witnessed multiple phases of boom when it comes to Global Capability Centers (GCCs) and these GCCs were established in India primarily to reap cost benefits. Customer support, data processing and IT services that these centers mainly focused on. Due to its abundant skilled labor force and lower operational cost, India proved to be an ideal location for setting up GCCs. However, with Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning coming into the picture India is being considered an ideal destination for MNCs to establish GCCs for multiple functions such as R&D, IT, banking, and financial services.
Several key factors contribute to this surge in GCCs. First, India’s booming software export sector plays a pivotal role, providing multinational companies with access to high-quality software development and IT services. India has long been recognized as a global leader in IT services, and this sector continues to expand, offering cutting-edge technological solutions that support businesses across various industries. Additionally, the country boasts an abundant and cost-effective pool of highly skilled tech talent, including software engineers, data scientists, business analysts, and other technical professionals.
The expansion of operations into India’s tier-2 cities has further propelled the growth of GCCs. These cities, with their lower operational costs and growing pool of educated professionals, provide attractive alternatives to traditional business hubs like Bengaluru, Hyderabad, and Mumbai & Delhi. The movement to tier-2 cities is also driving regional economic development, creating a more evenly distributed network of GCCs across the country.
Over 1 lakh GCC hires in 2024–25 highlight India’s tech depth.
Focus shifts to innovation-led, high-impact delivery.
Coimbatore & others rise as cost-efficient, policy-backed hubs.
Strategic location fuels access to emerging Asia.
Supportive governance drives MNC confidence and growth.
Lately, GCCs have been focusing their efforts on enhancing their services in the following domains
GCCs are increasingly prioritizing the integration of cutting-edge technologies like Artificial Intelligence (AI), Machine Learning (ML), automation, and blockchain to drive digital transformation.
As data becomes a crucial asset, GCCs are investing in advanced data analytics and business intelligence tools to extract actionable insights, drive decision-making, and optimize performance.
As cyber threats grow in complexity, GCCs are enhancing their cybersecurity frameworks to safeguard sensitive data and mitigate risks.
Many GCCs are shifting from being back-office support functions to becoming centers for innovation, especially in product development, research, and process optimization.
To support the growing demands of global businesses, GCCs are expanding their HR services to include talent acquisition, learning and development, payroll management, and employee engagement initiatives.
With increasing pressure on businesses to adopt sustainable practices, GCCs are also focusing on driving sustainability initiatives.
Global Capability Centers (GCCs) are undeniably key drivers of the nation’s economic growth. As leaders in innovating a wide range of business processes and functions, they not only provide significant value to their parent organizations but also open new opportunities within the sector. GCCs play a critical role in developing a skilled workforce that is well-equipped to address the complexities of today’s business environment. This highly trained talent pool offers cutting-edge services at competitive prices, enhancing the global appeal of India-based GCCs.
Partnering at the ET Edge GCC Summit 2025 means aligning with the epicentre of global business transformation. As GCCs evolve beyond cost centres into hubs of innovation, AI, and R&D, this platform connects you with the minds shaping the future-from tech giants to finance leaders. Showcase your brand, spark strategic conversations, and unlock high-impact collaborations in a market poised to hit $110 billion by 2030. Don’t just follow the GCC revolution-lead it.
Head of Shared Services India and Country Head India
AXA XL
Partner and GCC Industry Leader
Deloitte India
CEO
Jaguar Land Rover
MD, Head of HSBC India Global Service Centres
HSBC
India Site Head and Head of HR
Fidelity International
Global Head
Alcon Global Services
Industry leaders and experts will share insights on how GCCs are moving up the value chain, enhancing their strategic contributions, and positioning themselves as centers of excellence. Discussions will cover challenges, best practices, and the future outlook for GCCs in an increasingly digital and interconnected world.
This panel will discuss the emergence of AI-first Global Capability Centers (GCCs) and their role in shaping the next wave of intelligent operations. Experts will explore how AI, automation, and data-driven decision-making are transforming GCCs into strategic hubs of innovation
This chat will delve into how GCCs can integrate Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles into their strategic agenda. Focusing on the balance of People, Planet, and Profit, experts will share ESG playbooks tailored for the GCC boardroom.
This trilogue will explore the intersection of GCC growth and urban development, focusing on how GCCs can play a pivotal role in shaping India’s smart business districts and how GCCs can drive innovation-led urban evolution, contributing to the creation of future-ready, globally competitive business hubs.
This panel will explore the future of work as we approach 2030, focusing on the transformative impact of AI, the rise of the gig economy, and the shift toward hybrid work models. Experts will discuss how organizations can adapt to changing workforce dynamics, build resilient talent strategies, and leverage technology for productivity and engagement.
This expert chat will dive into how AI and Robotic Process Automation (RPA) are redefining operations within GCCs, driving productivity and efficiency at scale. The conversation will explore how to strike the right balance between automation and human ingenuity, ensuring innovation, creativity, and strategic thinking remain central.
This session will focus on how GCCs can proactively navigate the evolving landscape of cybersecurity and compliance. Experts will discuss emerging threats, regulatory challenges, and best practices for building robust security frameworks. And learn how to stay ahead of cyber risks while ensuring compliance, resilience, and trust in a rapidly digitizing world.
In this keynote address, the Chief Guest will highlight the growing trend of 'Glocal' GCCs—global capability centers built by Indian companies that combine international standards with deep local expertise. The speech will explore how these centers are driving innovation, creating global impact, and positioning India as a hub for strategic excellence.
Executive Vice President and Head India and Middle East HCLTech
Director
Airbnb Global Capability Centre
Partner and GCC Industry Leader
Deloitte India
India GBS Leader
Warner Bros. Discovery
MD, Head of HSBC India Global Service Centres
HSBC
Global Head
Novartis
Director Global Digital Transformation Customer Experience
Unilever
Principal Secretary
Department of IT and Electronics