GIFT City: Transforming India's Talent Landscape for a Global Future  

GIFT City (Gujarat International Finance Tec-City) is not just a financial hub; it represents a vision for a new India, one that aligns with global benchmarks in infrastructure, innovation, and talent development. Sujit Kumar, Head HR, Global Markets, Infosys Ltd, aptly summed it up during a recent talent workshop organized by the International Financial Services Centres Authority (IFSCA): “The India that we see in GIFT City is not the India we see outside.”

This statement highlights the transformative potential of     GIFT City     and its role in redefining India's financial and talent ecosystem.

Kumar emphasized the importance of leveraging social media to attract India’s youth to     GIFT City    . He proposed organizing tours for young graduates to experience the exceptional facilities at GIFT IFSC, drawing parallels to similar initiatives undertaken by Infosys in the past. These tours can inspire aspirations and instill a desire to be part of this revolutionary ecosystem.

However, retaining talent at GIFT City remains a challenge. Ashutosh Sharma, Chief General Manager, IFSCA, pointed out that companies need to     incentivize relocation     for employees moving from other cities like Mumbai. He questioned, “Why should a person move to GIFT IFSC if they are facing a salary reduction of 10%?” This highlights the need for competitive benefits and a compelling value proposition for professionals.

Building a Global Social Ecosystem

While GIFT City boasts world-class infrastructure, panelists stressed the need for a     vibrant social ecosystem     to make it more liveable. Vikram Gupta, Partner at Hunt Partners, advocated for drawing inspiration from global cities like Singapore, Dubai, and London. According to Gupta, enhancing the quality of life for residents and their families is key, including recreational opportunities, cultural hubs, and facilities for evening activities.

Adrain Mutton, Founder and Executive Chairman of Sannam S4 Group, supported this idea, emphasizing the importance of collaborating with foreign universities to create a social atmosphere. He noted that an environment fostering     socialization and learning     is essential for attracting and retaining young talent. Universities can also play a pivotal role in promoting research and innovation.

Aligning Talent with Global Standards

Arati Porwal, Country Head of CFA Institute India, highlighted the importance of developing a globally relevant talent pool at GIFT City. She identified three key areas for achieving this goal:

1.     Creating a Global Culture    : Emulating cities like Hong Kong and Singapore, GIFT City must foster an environment where diverse nationalities coexist seamlessly.

2.     World-Class Infrastructure    : Continuing to develop infrastructure that meets global standards is crucial for attracting international businesses and professionals.

3.     Knowledge Expansion    : Professionals at GIFT City need access to a global knowledge base. India-centric expertise, while valuable, may not fully meet the aspirations of global companies looking to establish themselves in GIFT City.

GIFT City’s Potential as a Talent Magnet

The discussions underscored the immense potential of     GIFT City     as a global financial and talent hub. To realize this vision, a multifaceted approach is required, including:

- Competitive incentives for talent.

- Collaborative efforts with international institutions.

- A robust social and cultural ecosystem.

- Infrastructure that supports global aspirations.

GIFT City is already paving the way for India’s future, and with these enhancements, it can solidify its position as a beacon for global talent and innovation.

Conclusion

As Kumar rightly observed, the     India within GIFT City     offers a glimpse into the country's future—one defined by ambition, innovation, and global excellence. By addressing challenges and leveraging opportunities,     GIFT City     is poised to become a global financial powerhouse and a magnet for the world’s brightest minds.

For more insights into GIFT City’s transformative journey, visit [www.giftcity.in](http://www.giftcity.in).