Top Technical Skills You Must Have as a Developer in 2025
As India experiences a surge in AI job opportunities, graduates entering the job market in 2025 will need to master a strong set of skills to stay ahead of the competition. While speculations and discussions among developers on Reddit suggest a 5-6 month grind for building skills, the right direction to follow remains unclear. The demand for skilled AI and software engineers is set to soar, considering that India’s tech industry anticipates a 9% growth in 2025, driven by sectors like IT, retail, telecom, and BFSI. Based on current trends, here are the top skills for landing a job in India as a 2025 graduate starting from scratch: Core Programming Skills 1. Python: The demand for Python remains high due to its versatility and extensive use in web development, data science, automation, and AI. Python, the language that became the most used language in 2024, is the top choice for job seekers who want to pursue any career in AI. Its simplicity and versatility have strengthened its status as the go-to language for AI and machine learning development. While C++ is still taught in universities, getting into the industry and building AI products requires the knowledge of Python. From startups to tech giants, companies across India are actively seeking Python-proficient developers to drive their AI initiatives. Learning the core language, however, is just not enough. Apart from being proficient in handling APIs, engineers also need to be well-versed in libraries such as TensorFlow, Keras, and PyTorch. These, along with pandas, NumPy, and Matplotlib for data science and Django and Flask for web development, are equally important. 2. JavaScript ecosystem Tools and libraries such as Node.js, React, Angular, and the MERN stack (MongoDB, Express.js, React, Node.js) continue to dominate web development. JavaScript’s role extends beyond web development; it has become increasingly important in AI, particularly for deploying machine learning models in web applications. Frameworks like TensorFlow.js allow developers to run AI models directly in the browser, enhancing user experiences without server-side computations. Why MERN Stack? The MERN stack is a popular framework for building dynamic web applications. Its relevance extends to AI when developing platforms that require real-time data interaction and user engagement. Companies favour candidates with MERN stack experience to create scalable and AI-integrated web solutions that enhance user experiences. MERN is getting increasingly competitive, so staying ahead of the curve requires extensive practice and training. SQL and MongoDB SQL remains critical for structured data management, while MongoDB caters to NoSQL database needs, which is essential for modern and flexible data applications. Most Sought-After Skills 1. Data Structures and Algorithms (DSA): Why: Fundamental for clearing coding interviews across software development roles. Languages: Java and Python are popular choices for practising DSA. Java is often preferred for deeper understanding in Indian hiring scenarios. 2. Backend Development: Tech Stack: Java full stack (Spring Boot) or Python (Django or Flask) Why: Java continues to dominate backend applications, and Python is growing in demand. Entry Point: It is ideal for starting with MNCs, as Java remains the backbone of many enterprise applications. 3. Frontend Development: Tech Stack: React.js (part of MERN) or Angular Why: Frontend roles are abundant but competitive, and React is a market favourite. 4. Full Stack Development: Tech Stack: MERN Why: Many companies look for developers capable of handling both frontend and backend. However, the competition is high. 5. Data Analysis and Transition to Machine Learning: Skills: Python, SQL, Excel, Tableau and Power BI are relevant skills for entry-level data analysis roles. Next Steps: Transition into data engineering (PySpark, ETL) or machine learning (TensorFlow, PyTorch). 6. Cloud Computing: Platforms: Amazon Web Services (AWS), Azure, Google Cloud Skills: Docker, Kubernetes, and basic DevOps tools must be learnt to enhance employability. 7. Industry-Relevant Projects: Key Technologies: React, AWS, Docker, Spring Boot Why: Companies prioritise candidates with practical experience in modern tools over academic projects. 8. Text Editors Master editors like VS Code, Sublime Text, or Atom boost productivity with features like syntax highlighting and code completion. 9. Integrated Development Environments (IDE) Tools like PyCharm, Visual Studio, and IntelliJ IDEA streamline development with error highlighting and automation. 10. Object-Oriented Design (OOD) Apply principles like inheritance, encapsulation, and polymorphism. Design modular, scalable, and maintainable software architectures. 11. Cross-Platform Development Build apps for multiple platforms using Flutter, React Native, or Xamarin. Ensure seamless user experience across devices and operating systems. 12. Prioritisation Based on Scenarios: If interested in data, focus on Python, SQL, and Excel for Data Analysis. If aiming for development, start with Java and DSA and move to backend or full-stack development. If undecided, begin with DSA and a versatile language like Python, which can later transition into ML or web development. 13. Data Tools Excel remains a fundamental tool for basic analysis, while Tableau, Power BI, Qlik Sense and QlikView offer advanced visualisation and business intelligence capabilities. Must-Have Skills for Data Engineers: Cloud Platforms: Expertise in AWS, Azure, and Google Cloud Platform (GCP) is vital for managing and deploying cloud-based data infrastructure. Database Management: It is crucial to have knowledge of both relational (e.g., MySQL, PostgreSQL) and non-relational (e.g., MongoDB, Cassandra) databases. Data Pipelines and Orchestration: Familiarity with tools like Airflow (workflow orchestration), Kafka (real-time data processing), and ETL pipelines is critical for creating efficient data workflows. Snowflake: Increasingly recognised as a powerful data platform for storage and analytics, learning Snowflake is a must for data professionals.
Startups and tech giants across India are actively seeking Python and Java-proficient developers to drive their AI initiatives.
Startups and tech giants across India are actively seeking Python and Java-proficient developers to drive their AI initiatives.
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["Top Trend", "data science", "machine learning", "Keras", "AI", "PyTorch", "programming", "MERN", "ML", "Python", "developer", "graduate", "Aim", "analytics", "TensorFlow", "India", "Pandas"]
["AI", "machine learning", "ML", "data science", "analytics", "Aim", "TensorFlow", "PyTorch", "Keras", "Pandas"]
Mohit writes about AI in simple, explainable, and often funny words. He's especially passionate about chatting with those building AI for Bharat, with the occasional detour into AGI.