The India Skills Report 2025, compiled by Wheebox, a leading global education and talent solutions firm, offers a fascinating look into the changing landscape of male employability and work preferences throughout India. As companies increasingly prioritize talent optimization, understanding where men are choosing to build their careers can reveal significant regional trends and career aspirations.
Rising Employability Among Men
Over the past seven years, India has witnessed a remarkable shift in male employability. Data from the India Skills Report 2025 indicates a steady upward trajectory. In 2019, 34.26% of men taking the Global Employability Test were considered employable. This figure remained consistent in 2020 and 2021. However, 2022 saw a significant jump to 47.28%, continuing its rise to 47.20% in 2023, 51.80% in 2024, and ultimately reaching an impressive 53.46% in 2025. These statistics highlight encouraging progress in preparing men for the workforce, even as efforts continue to address existing skill gaps.
Regional Preferences: Where Men Choose to Work
Male professionals across India have clearly demonstrated a preference for specific states. According to the Wheebox report, the top 10 states favored by men for employment are:
- Gujarat
- Andhra Pradesh
- Kerala
- Maharashtra
- Tamil Nadu
- Delhi
- Uttar Pradesh
- Madhya Pradesh
- Karnataka
- Haryana
Implications for Employers
The consistent preferences for these states are a strong indicator of wider social and economic patterns. Regions that boast robust career opportunities, advanced infrastructure, and supportive professional environments naturally draw in male talent at a higher rate. Conversely, states with less developed industries or fewer growth prospects might experience slower progress in male workforce engagement. Employers can utilize this valuable data to refine their recruitment strategies and craft policies that effectively enhance talent attraction and retention.
Looking Ahead
Male employability extends beyond mere numbers; it’s a reflection of access to quality education, skill development programs, and genuine opportunities. For men aspiring to advance their careers, grasping these regional trends can be crucial for making informed choices that lead to growth-oriented environments.
As India’s dynamic workforce continues to evolve, these ten states are emerging not merely as popular employment centers, but as key indicators of where men are actively forging and shaping the nation’s professional future.