TCS and Top IT Firms Cut Bench Time by 50%, Now Just 30–35 Days

Shorter idle periods and leaner teams are boosting efficiency—but also stirring unease among tech workers.

Bench Time Shrinks as AI Takes Center Stage

Leading Indian IT firms like TCS, Infosys, Wipro, and HCL have cut average bench time to just 30–35 days. This is a sharp drop from the earlier 45–60 days seen during 2020–21.

The shift reflects a growing focus on agility and cost-efficiency in the age of artificial intelligence. Instead of keeping large pools of idle talent, companies are now pushing toward project-based staffing and rapid redeployment.

Restless Workforce Despite Fewer on the Bench

Fewer tech professionals are on the bench today, but those who are feel more dissatisfied than before. Many are actively job-hunting, hoping for more engaging work or better pay.

Neeti Sharma, CEO of TeamLease Digital, says more professionals are seeking new roles now than in previous years. This highlights a deeper sense of uncertainty among benched staff.

IT Firms Adopt Leaner, Smarter Models

To remain competitive, companies are relying more on freelance talent and on-demand hiring. This helps them cut costs, boost flexibility, and meet client needs faster.

Skilled workers in high-demand areas like AI, cloud computing, and cybersecurity spend little to no time on the bench.

According to Prashant Shukla of Everest Group, reducing bench size is not just about saving money. It’s also about being ready for future demand and showcasing internal success with AI.

The Hidden Cost of Long Benching

Experts warn that keeping workers idle for too long can hurt companies in several ways:

• Lower profit margins due to unused staff
• Higher attrition, as employees leave for better roles
• Lower overall productivity and staff morale
• More spending on hiring and training replacements

Biswajeet Mahapatra of Forrester notes that a lean bench strategy helps firms stay efficient and avoid these issues.

What This Means for IT Workers

As firms shift to skill-based deployment, job seekers must keep their skills up-to-date. Staying relevant in AI, cloud, cybersecurity, and DevOps can reduce time on the bench and improve job security.

With companies focusing on internal talent before hiring new staff, lateral job opportunities may also become harder to find.

The Indian IT industry is clearly moving toward a faster, leaner, and smarter workforce strategy. While this benefits companies in terms of speed and cost, professionals must adapt quickly to stay in demand. Upskilling, flexibility, and a focus on emerging technologies are now more crucial than ever.

Image Source