The Indian Staffing Federation (ISF), the apex body for the flexi-staffing industry in India, said that despite cautious market sentiment in 2025 and 2026 due to geopolitical uncertainties across the world, the industry added 1.18 lakh new formal flexi workers over the last 12 months and recorded an 8% year-on-year growth in employment.According to ISF’s annual report for financial year 2025–26, the total formal flexi workforce employed by its members reached 1.91 million as of March 2026. The federation attributed the growth to the increasing formalisation of employment and sustained demand across sectors despite global challenges.The report also highlighted a recovery of the IT staffing segment, which registered a 10.1% year-on-year increase in new employment. According to ISF Vice President Farhan Azmi, GCCs accounted for 73% of new hiring mandates, driving growth in the sector.Manmeet Singh, President of ISF, said the industry’s steady growth reflects the maturity of India’s staffing ecosystem, which continues to play a key role in formal job creation and economic stability. He noted that staffing companies have helped absorb market volatility while supporting the country’s broader economic ambitions.ISF executive director Suchita Dutta said the federation’s members continued expanding formal employment despite a subdued economic environment. She also added that a significant portion of workers belonged to the 18-25 year age group, highlighting the strong presence in the workforce. Published - June 10, 2026 08:55 pm IST