Introduction: Uttar Pradesh’s Vision for Global Capability Centres

In June 2024, Uttar Pradesh unveiled its ambitious Global Capability Centre (GCC) Policy, aiming to transform Noida, Lucknow, and Varanasi into world-class technology hubs. This strategic move, as reported by Elets Technomedia, is set to position Uttar Pradesh at the forefront of India’s digital and technological revolution. The policy aims to attract top-tier professional services companies, foster innovation, and create a robust ecosystem for global businesses.

With the global GCC market projected to reach $110 billion by 2025 (NASSCOM, 2023), Uttar Pradesh’s proactive approach is timely and aligns with India’s broader vision of becoming a global digital powerhouse.

What is a Global Capability Centre (GCC)?

GCCs, or Global Capability Centres, are offshore units established by multinational corporations to deliver a range of services, including IT, business process management, research, analytics, and digital transformation. India has emerged as a preferred destination for GCCs, with over 1,600 centres employing more than 1.66 million professionals as of 2024 (Deloitte, 2024).

The GCC model enables companies to leverage India’s talent pool, cost efficiencies, and innovation ecosystem, making cities like Noida, Lucknow, and Varanasi attractive locations for expansion.

Key Highlights of the Uttar Pradesh GCC Policy 2024

• Targeted Cities: Noida, Lucknow, and Varanasi identified as priority hubs.
• Incentives: Financial grants, tax exemptions, and infrastructure support for GCCs.
• Talent Development: Partnerships with universities and skilling programs to nurture a future-ready workforce.
• Ease of Doing Business: Single-window clearances, streamlined regulatory processes, and dedicated support cells.
• Focus on Emerging Technologies: Special incentives for companies in AI, cybersecurity, IoT, blockchain, and data analytics.
• Green and Smart Infrastructure: Development of sustainable, connected business districts with world-class amenities.

These measures are designed to attract Fortune 500 companies, global professional services firms, and technology innovators to set up and scale their operations in Uttar Pradesh.

Noida: The Next-Gen Technology and GCC Powerhouse

Noida, already a leading IT and business hub in North India, stands to benefit immensely from the new GCC policy. With its strategic proximity to Delhi, robust infrastructure, and a thriving ecosystem of startups and MNCs, Noida is poised to become a magnet for global investments.

Recent research by CBRE (2024) highlights Noida’s growing appeal, with office space absorption by GCCs increasing by 22% year-on-year. The city’s connectivity, access to a skilled workforce, and proactive governance make it an ideal location for professional services companies looking to establish or expand their GCCs.

Lucknow: Emerging as a Digital Transformation Hub

Lucknow, the capital of Uttar Pradesh, is undergoing a digital renaissance. The GCC policy provides a roadmap for transforming Lucknow into a centre for IT, analytics, and digital services. With investments in smart infrastructure, educational institutions, and innovation parks, Lucknow is set to attract both established players and new-age startups.

According to a 2024 KPMG report, Lucknow’s talent pool in engineering and management is expanding rapidly, making it an attractive destination for professional services firms seeking high-quality, cost-effective talent for their GCCs.

Varanasi: Bridging Tradition and Technology

Varanasi, renowned for its cultural heritage, is now on the cusp of a technological transformation. The GCC policy envisions Varanasi as a hub for knowledge-based industries, leveraging its academic institutions and skilled youth population.

With targeted incentives and infrastructure upgrades, Varanasi is expected to attract investments in fintech, edtech, and digital services, creating new opportunities for professional services companies and technology leaders.

Opportunities for Professional Services Companies

The Uttar Pradesh GCC policy opens up a plethora of opportunities for professional services companies, including consulting, legal, finance, HR, and IT services. Key advantages include:

• Access to a Large, Skilled Talent Pool: Uttar Pradesh produces over 500,000 STEM graduates annually, ensuring a steady pipeline of talent for GCCs (AICTE, 2024).
• Competitive Operational Costs: Lower real estate and salary costs compared to traditional metro cities.
• Business-Friendly Environment: Streamlined regulations and proactive government support.
• Innovation Ecosystem: Collaboration opportunities with local startups, universities, and research centres.
• Scalability: Availability of large office spaces and plug-and-play infrastructure.

For professional services firms, establishing a GCC in Noida, Lucknow, or Varanasi means access to a vibrant market, the ability to serve global clients efficiently, and the opportunity to drive innovation at scale.

Recent Research: GCC Growth and Talent Trends (2023-2024)

Recent studies underscore the rapid growth of GCCs in India:

• NASSCOM (2023): India is expected to host over 2,000 GCCs by 2025, with a focus on digital, engineering, and R&D services.
• Deloitte (2024): 65% of global organizations plan to expand their GCC footprint in India, citing talent availability and policy support as key drivers.
• EY (2024): Digital transformation, automation, and AI are the top priorities for GCCs, driving demand for specialized talent and leadership.

This research highlights the importance of talent strategy, leadership hiring, and ecosystem partnerships for successful GCC operations.

Han Digital: Enabling GCC Success through Talent and Leadership

As professional services companies explore opportunities in Uttar Pradesh’s new technology hubs, the role of expert talent partners becomes critical. Han Digital, a leading talent intelligence and recruitment firm, is uniquely positioned to support GCCs in Noida, Lucknow, and Varanasi.

With deep expertise in talent mapping, leadership hiring, and workforce analytics, Han Digital offers:

• Comprehensive Talent Intelligence: Real-time insights into local and national talent markets, enabling GCCs to make informed hiring decisions.
• Leadership Connections: Strong relationships with senior leaders across industries, facilitating executive search and succession planning for GCCs.
• Customized Workforce Solutions: Tailored recruitment strategies for IT, analytics, consulting, and digital roles.
• Market Entry Advisory: Guidance on local hiring practices, compensation benchmarking, and employer branding in Uttar Pradesh.

Han Digital’s unique understanding of the evolving talent landscape in Noida, Lucknow, and Varanasi ensures that professional services companies can attract, retain, and develop the best talent for their GCCs, driving long-term success and innovation.

How Han Digital Adds Value for Professional Services GCCs

For organizations looking to establish or expand their GCCs in Uttar Pradesh, Han Digital delivers value in several ways:

• Strategic Talent Planning: Identifying future skills, leadership requirements, and workforce trends to align with business goals.
• Access to Passive Talent: Leveraging networks to engage high-potential candidates not actively seeking new roles.
• Diversity and Inclusion: Building diverse teams to foster innovation and reflect global client needs.
• Onboarding and Retention: Supporting seamless onboarding and long-term employee engagement in new locations.

By partnering with Han Digital, professional services firms can navigate the complexities of the Uttar Pradesh talent market, accelerate their GCC setup, and achieve sustainable growth.

Case Study: Successful GCC Setups in Uttar Pradesh

Several global organizations have already established successful GCCs in Noida and Lucknow, leveraging the state’s supportive policies and talent ecosystem. For instance:

• Global Consulting Firm: Set up a 1,200-seat GCC in Noida, focusing on digital transformation and analytics, with Han Digital supporting leadership hiring and talent acquisition.
• IT Services Major: Expanded its Lucknow operations to include a new R&D centre, benefiting from local university partnerships and government incentives.
• Fintech Startup: Chose Varanasi for its back-office operations, citing access to skilled graduates and lower operational costs.

These success stories demonstrate the potential of Uttar Pradesh’s GCC policy to attract diverse organizations and create high-value jobs.

Future Outlook: Uttar Pradesh as India’s Next GCC Destination

With the implementation of the GCC policy, Uttar Pradesh is set to emerge as a preferred destination for global professional services companies. Key trends to watch include:

• Rise of Tier-2 and Tier-3 Cities: Lucknow and Varanasi will see increased GCC activity, reducing pressure on traditional metros.
• Focus on Digital Skills: Demand for AI, cybersecurity, data science, and cloud professionals will surge.
• Collaborative Ecosystems: Partnerships between industry, academia, and government will drive innovation and skill development.
• ESG and Sustainability: Green buildings, smart infrastructure, and inclusive hiring will become standard for new GCCs.

For professional services companies, early movers will gain a competitive edge by tapping into Uttar Pradesh’s emerging technology landscape and leveraging expert partners like Han Digital.

Conclusion: Seizing the GCC Opportunity in Uttar Pradesh

The Uttar Pradesh GCC policy marks a transformative step in India’s journey to becoming a global technology leader. By focusing on Noida, Lucknow, and Varanasi, the state is unlocking new opportunities for professional services companies, technology innovators, and global investors.

With robust policy support, a skilled workforce, and a thriving ecosystem, Uttar Pradesh is well-positioned to attract and nurture world-class GCCs. Organizations looking to establish or expand their presence in India should consider the state’s unique advantages—and partner with experts like Han Digital to maximize their success.

To learn more about the Uttar Pradesh GCC Policy and how your organization can benefit, read the full article on Elets Technomedia or contact Han Digital for a customized talent strategy consultation.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the Uttar Pradesh GCC Policy?

The Uttar Pradesh GCC Policy is a government initiative to attract and support the establishment of Global Capability Centres in Noida, Lucknow, and Varanasi, offering incentives, infrastructure, and talent development programs.

Why should professional services companies consider Uttar Pradesh for GCCs?

Uttar Pradesh offers a large talent pool, competitive costs, business-friendly policies, and a supportive ecosystem for professional services GCCs.

How does Han Digital support GCCs in Uttar Pradesh?

Han Digital provides talent intelligence, leadership hiring, workforce solutions, and market entry advisory to help GCCs attract and retain top talent in Noida, Lucknow, and Varanasi.

What are the growth prospects for GCCs in India?

India is expected to host over 2,000 GCCs