Digital, data and cybersecurity skills are emerging as foundational capabilities for employability and workforce growth, while industry-recognised certifications and diversity-led skilling are increasingly shaping hiring confidence across organisations, according to NIIT India Skills Gap Report 2026, a nationwide study conducted in partnership with YouGov.The report, which was released recently, drew responses from 700 recruiters, CXOs, senior leaders and academic heads, spanning industries such as IT/ITeS, BFSI, manufacturing, healthcare, e-commerce, EdTech, government, FMCG, telecom and auto.Digital, data and cybersecurity drive future hiring demandAcross the hiring ecosystem, digital and data skills consistently rank among the top three most critical capabilities for the next 3-5 years across all cohorts surveyed — students, employees, recruiters, CXOs and academia, according to the report.As organisations integrate AI into business operations, hiring signals are becoming more precise and outcome-driven. The study reveals that 38% of respondents agree that employers increasingly value certifications and micro-credentials beyond traditional degrees, reflecting a clear move away from degree-only hiring norms.Published - April 07, 2026 01:10 am IST