AI Skill Demand Surges in India's CDMO Sector Over Two Years

A report reveals that the demand for AI skills in India's CDMO industry has nearly tripled from 2023 to 2025, primarily in technology and digital roles. Increased talent needs highlight the sector's growth and reliance on AI-driven capabilities.

A recent analysis indicates a nearly three-fold increase in the demand for artificial intelligence (AI) skills within India's Contract Development and Manufacturing Organisation (CDMO) sector between 2023 and 2025. This shift is attributed to evolving hiring patterns.

The report from CIEL HR, released last Thursday, shows a rise in AI skill requirements from 6.2% to 17.2%, with technology and digital roles experiencing the highest demand at 38%. Inputs from over 50 CDMO and pharmaceutical companies across three years informed these findings.

Additionally, the report noted the CDMO sector's overall talent demand grew by 52%, reflecting expansion and increasing complexity in outsourced pharmaceutical work. However, a stark gap exists between AI skill supply and demand in high-value roles.

Geographically, talent is concentrated in a few states, including Maharashtra and Gujarat, creating challenges for emerging hubs in catching up. Aditya Narayana Mishra of CIEL HR highlighted the need for integrating AI into all operational layers for competitive advantage.