TCS layoffs mark the end of the ‘Kitne aadmi the' era, ushering in AI and automation-led Indian IT future

Time of India

21 hours ago

The Indian IT industry, long regarded as a stable and secure employment hub, is undergoing a dramatic transformation. Tata Consultancy Services (TCS), known as one of the safest employers in the sector, has announced plans to lay off approximately 12,000 employees over the coming years.
This decision is largely driven by the global adoption of artificial intelligence (AI) and automation, reshaping how companies allocate human resources and deliver value. Former Tech Mahindra CEO and current AIonOS co-founder CP Gurnani has weighed in on the development, declaring an end to the 'Sholay days' of Indian IT, referencing the iconic Bollywood film to signify the closure of an era defined by manpower-heavy operations.
TCS's decision to cut jobs and CP Gurnani's declaration of the 'end of the Sholay days' symbolise the closure of one chapter and the beginning of another for India's IT sector. The shift from manpower-centric models to AI-driven, outcome-based operations marks a fundamental evolution in how IT services are delivered and valued. While it may disrupt traditional employment patterns, it also opens the door to new opportunities for innovation, efficiency, and global competitiveness—provided companies and employees adapt quickly to the change.
by Taboola
by Taboola
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TCS layoffs
showcase AI-driven transformation of Indian IT: End of 'Sholay days'
TCS has traditionally been seen as an employment safe haven in India's IT ecosystem. Its decision to cut jobs signals a fundamental shift not just for one company but for the entire industry. The mass layoffs highlight how AI is replacing routine roles, reducing reliance on manual processes while increasing efficiency. The message is clear: employee headcount is no longer the primary measure of success.
For decades, Indian IT companies competed based on workforce size, winning global contracts on the strength of large delivery teams.
Now, automation and AI are reducing the need for such scale, and businesses are increasingly prioritising productivity, innovation, and technological expertise over sheer numbers.
CP Gurnani's 'End of Sholay Days' remark: 'Kitne aadmi the?'
In an analogy referencing Sholay's famous dialogue 'Kitne aadmi the?', Gurnani said the industry must abandon its fixation on workforce strength. He noted that the era of measuring success based on manpower metrics is over and urged IT firms to embrace output- and outcome-based pricing models.
These models shift client engagement away from billable headcount to value delivery, where contracts are based on performance and results rather than working hours. According to Gurnani, this transformation will position companies for success in an AI-driven global marketplace.
AI-driven IT era focuses on skills, innovation and outcome-based work culture
Artificial intelligence and automation are at the core of this transformation. Tasks that previously required entire teams can now be executed by AI agents or automated systems, reducing operational costs while increasing speed and accuracy.
Gurnani emphasised that routine jobs will inevitably be automated, but he also pointed out that this will create new, specialised roles requiring advanced skills in AI, machine learning, data science, and cybersecurity.
This shift demands a workforce that is reskilled and upskilled for emerging technologies. IT professionals will need to adapt quickly, transitioning from performing repetitive tasks to delivering strategic, high-value contributions.
Gurnani's view challenges traditional work philosophies, including the recent statement by Infosys founder Narayana Murthy advocating extended working hours for young professionals.
In contrast, Gurnani argues that working longer is not the solution; working smarter is. He stresses the importance of focusing on measurable outputs, innovation, and strategic impact rather than the number of hours clocked in.
This approach mirrors the shift already seen in leading global tech firms, where success is defined by agility and outcomes rather than manpower-heavy models.
Gurnani leads AIonOS to bring AI into business operations
As Executive Vice Chairman and Co-Founder of AIonOS, Gurnani is directly contributing to this paradigm shift. AIonOS is focused on integrating AI across business operations, enabling companies to operate with greater efficiency, speed, and profitability.
The venture aims to help businesses transition into AI-native enterprises—organisations built around automation, data-driven decision-making, and advanced analytics.
By positioning AI at the core of enterprise architecture, AIonOS seeks to blend human ingenuity with machine intelligence, creating scalable models that optimise performance while reducing operational redundancies.
The TCS layoffs and Gurnani's remarks highlight a broader trend: the Indian IT sector is at a crossroads. The industry, once driven by large workforces and offshore delivery models, must now reinvent itself around advanced technology, innovation, and outcomes-based client relationships. For employees, the lesson is clear: reskilling and upskilling are essential. Professionals who develop expertise in AI, data analytics, cloud computing, and cybersecurity will be best positioned to thrive in this new era.
Companies, meanwhile, must invest in workforce transformation to ensure they remain competitive globally.
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