In the past two years, over 37,000 employees have been laid off across more than 130 Indian startups . From tech giants to emerging startups, no one is immune.

The Layoff Landscape in India

Let's look at some notable layoffs:

• Paytm: Between December 2023 and March 2024, Paytm laid off more than 3,500 sales employees. In May 2024, the company announced plans to cut an additional 5,000 to 6,300 jobs in FY25 to save around INR 400-500 Cr on employee costs .

• Byju's: Once valued at $22 billion, Byju's has faced significant challenges, including laying off thousands of employees. In April 2024, the company cut 500 jobs, primarily impacting the sales function. The company is also grappling with insolvency proceedings, which could lead to a total shutdown if unresolved .

• Ola Electric: In March 2025, Ola Electric announced plans to lay off over 1,000 employees and contract workers to focus on profitability. This followed a previous round of layoffs in November 2024, which saw around 500 jobs cut .

• Unacademy: In July 2024, Unacademy laid off 250 employees as part of a restructuring activity. The company has laid off more than 2,000 employees since the start of the funding winter in 2022 .

• Swiggy: In January 2024, Swiggy announced plans to lay off 350-400 employees as part of a corporate realignment process. This followed a previous round of layoffs in January 2023, where the company fired 380 employees .

Why Digital Marketing and Python Are Essential Skills

In an era of uncertainty, acquiring in-demand skills can provide a safety net:

Digital Marketing

• High Demand: Businesses are increasingly relying on digital channels to reach customers, making digital marketing skills highly sought after.

• Versatility: Skills in SEO, content marketing, social media, and email marketing are applicable across various industries.

• Entrepreneurial Opportunities: Digital marketing skills can empower you to start your own business or freelance.

Python Programming

• Widely Used: Python is used in web development, data analysis, artificial intelligence, and more.

• Ease of Learning: Python's simple syntax makes it an excellent choice for beginners.

• Career Opportunities: Proficiency in Python can open doors to roles such as data analyst, machine learning engineer, and software developer.

Take Action Now

Don't wait for a layoff to force your hand. Proactively upskill to stay competitive in the job market.

• Learn Digital Marketing: Enroll in online courses, attend workshops, and practice by creating your own projects.

• Learn Python: Start with beginner tutorials, build small programs, and gradually tackle more complex projects.

By investing in yourself today, you can build a more secure and fulfilling career tomorrow.

Sources:

• Inc42: Indian Startup Layoffs Tracker Reuters+4Inc42 Media+4Inc42 Media+4

• Reuters: India's Paytm banking unit to cut about 20% of staff Reuters+5Reuters+5Inc42 Media+5

• Reuters: Indian ed-tech giant Byju's faces total shutdown if insolvency proceeds Inc42 Media+2Reuters+2Reuters+2

• Reuters: Ola Electric to cut over 1,000 jobs Reuters

• Inc42: Indian Startups Sacked More Than 9,000 Employees in 2024