Infosys, one of India’s leading IT services companies, has recently terminated 240 entry-level trainees who failed to meet the qualifying criteria in internal assessments.
This decision was communicated through emails sent on April 18, 2025.
It has triggered widespread discussions about corporate policies, employee development, and the challenges currently faced by the IT industry in a subdued demand environment.
The layoffs are similar to another round of terminations carried out in February 2025. During that period, over 300 trainees were let go under comparable circumstances.
Reasons Behind the Termination of Trainees at Infosys
The affected trainees were unable to clear the “Generic Foundation Training Program.”
This was despite being provided additional preparation time, doubt-clearing sessions, mock assessments, and three attempts to pass.
Infosys stated in its termination email, “You have not met the qualifying criteria in the ‘Generic foundation training program’ despite the additional preparation time, doubt-clearing sessions, several mock assessments, and three attempts.”
The company added, “As a result, you will not be able to continue your journey for the apprenticeship program“.
The company highlighted that the decision was driven by performance metrics.
It stated that this step was essential to uphold the quality standards expected in its apprenticeship program.
The terminated trainees were initially hired as System Engineers and Digital Specialist Engineers. These roles demand a robust foundation in technical skills.
Support Offered to Affected Employees
Infosys has taken steps to ease the transition for the affected trainees.
The company is offering free upskilling programs through partnerships with NIIT and UpGrad.
These programs aim to prepare trainees for potential roles in the Business Process Management (BPM) industry. They also help trainees continue honing their IT skills.
Infosys has also extended professional outplacement services to help trainees explore opportunities outside the company.
The terminated employees will be given one month’s pay as part of their severance package.
They will also receive accommodation and a travel allowance to help them return home from the Mysore training center.
This support package aims to mitigate the immediate impact of the layoffs and provide a pathway for career development.
Broader Context of Trainee Layoffs at Infosys: Economic Challenges and Industry Trends
The layoffs come at a time when Infosys is navigating a subdued demand environment in its core markets, such as the US and Europe.
The company has forecast revenue growth of 0% to 3% for the current fiscal year, reflecting continued uncertainty in the global economy.
Many of the affected trainees had waited over two years to be onboarded due to the macroeconomic slowdown that caused clients to reduce project spending.
Despite these challenges, Infosys remains committed to hiring fresh talent.
The company plans to onboard 20,000 freshers in FY26, a significant increase from the 15,000 freshers hired in FY25.
This ambitious hiring plan signals a revival in demand and discretionary spending across sectors.
The incident highlights the importance of robust training programs and the need for companies to balance performance expectations with employee development.
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