By Abdul Ahad, General Manager – Global Expansion at NetCom+
India’s next wave of growth will come from places beyond its metros. Small cities are full of young people who are eager to learn, build careers and contribute to the economy. What they often lack is access to quality learning that fits their reality. Mobile-first education is changing that. With a phone and an internet connection, anyone can now learn, earn, and grow at their own pace.
India’s e-learning market generated over USD 12 billion in 2024 and is expected to reach almost USD 38 billion by 2030, according to Grand View Research. Much of this growth comes from mobile-based platforms that have made learning more accessible and affordable. For millions of learners, a smartphone is now their classroom and career counselor.
From Service Hubs to Innovation Centers
In the 1990s, India established its reputation in IT services and outsourcing. That phase gave the country a solid foundation. Today, it is known for innovation, not just support work. Global companies like SAP, Salesforce and many others have set up R&D centers in India, with as much as 40 percent of their talent based here.
A BCG survey reported that over 90% of computer-using professionals in India use AI tools regularly. This is way higher when we compare this to the global average. Thus, India is contributing to the definition of the digital economy rather than just playing a minor role. Professionals and learners who want to stay relevant must have skills in AI, data science, cloud computing, and cybersecurity. Taking an online certification course in AI or Data Science, for instance, can help in professional development.
How GCCs Are Changing the Map
GCCs, or Global Capability Centers, are changing the job market in India. They are technology and innovation hubs for multinational companies, and are growing beyond big cities. Coimbatore, Mysuru, Jaipur, Bhubaneswar, and Vadodara are some of the new places where these centers will be set up.
They are bringing higher-level jobs in data analysis, AI development, and cybersecurity to smaller cities. The India Employer Forum says that the need for these skills in Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities has grown by 20 to 38 percent in the past year. In smaller cities, job openings went up by 42%, and in larger cities, they went up by 19%.
GCCs need a steady stream of skilled workers to keep this growth going. That’s possible thanks to mobile-first learning. People can get certified in AI, cloud computing, and IT skills without leaving their hometowns thanks to localized, multilingual platforms.
Why learning on a mobile device works
A lot of the time, traditional education moves too slowly to keep up with new technology. Mobile-first learning fixes this by being quick and adaptable. Students can take classes in any language and at any time, without having to pay for or travel to them. This is the only real way for many people, especially those who live in small towns, to learn new skills.
Platforms that use AI now change learning paths based on how well students are doing. People can take short, focused classes that help them use their skills right away. For example, a person who works for a small logistics company can learn data analytics to help them plan better routes, and another person can take a cybersecurity course to get a job in IT.
Growth in Data and Technology Careers
Fields like data science and cloud computing are creating real opportunities for young professionals. India’s technology sector is expanding rapidly. By 2025, the country will need around 1.5 million data professionals, according to NASSCOM. Globally, over 11 million data-related jobs are expected by 2026, and India is well-placed to fill many of them. Data professionals in India earn around ₹15 lakh per year on average, showing the value of these skills.
These careers are accessible to talent in Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities. People can work for companies anywhere in the world without leaving their hometowns. Mobile-first learning platforms offering cloud computing, cybersecurity, and data courses make this possible while keeping costs and logistics manageable.
Upskilling is a Continuous Process
Upskilling takes time and teamwork. In this journey, learners, employers, and policymakers need to come together. Employers can encourage learning at work and appreciating those who take the effort to improve. Governments and local groups can set up GCCs and share information in the languages people understand best. With the right kind of guidance, individuals can discover jobs and choose paths that match their interests and abilities.
Smaller cities are contributing to India’s growth. Learning is easier now that smartphones are cheaper and the internet is faster. A person in Bhubaneswar who is taking a cloud computing course or a student in Mysuru who is getting a certification are both examples of how technology is opening up new doors. This is part of a bigger plan to make learning available all the time.
India’s e-learning market could reach 38 billion dollars by 2030, but its value is in the people it benefits. Mobile-first learning allows learners to gain the skills employers need. With GCCs expanding, more roles in technology and data, and stronger mobile learning platforms, smaller cities are becoming skill hubs and will contribute alongside the bigger metros.