
The latest data from the India Skills Report 2025 by Wheebox, a global education and talent solutions organisation, sheds light on evolving trends in men’s employability and workplace preferences across India. As organisations increasingly recognise the importance of talent optimisation, understanding where men are gravitating for professional opportunities provides insight into regional trends and career aspirations.Also Read: Top 10 Indian states women prefer to work in
Rising employability among men
Men’s employability in India has seen significant changes over the past seven years. In 2019, 34.26% of men who appeared for the Global Employability Test were deemed employable. The same figure persisted in 2020 and 2021 at 34.26%. However, 2022 marked a sharp rise to 47.28%, followed by 47.20% in 2023, 51.80% in 2024, and 53.46% in 2025, according to the India Skills Report 2025. These figures point to steady progress in preparing men for the workforce, alongside challenges in bridging skill gaps.
Regional preferences: Where men choose to work
Across India, male professionals have shown a clear preference for certain states. The top 10 states where men prefer working, according to Wheebox’s report, are:
- Gujarat
- Andhra Pradesh
- Kerala
- Maharashtra
- Tamil Nadu
- Delhi
- Uttar Pradesh
- Madhya Pradesh
- Karnataka
- Haryana
Implications for employers
The patterns in these preferred states reflect broader social and economic trends. Regions offering career opportunities, infrastructure, and supportive professional ecosystems attract men at higher rates. Conversely, states lagging in industry development or growth opportunities may see slower progress in male workforce participation. Employers can leverage this data to guide recruitment strategies and design policies that optimise talent retention.
Looking ahead
Men’s employability is more than a statistic; it reflects access to education, skill development, and opportunity. For aspiring male professionals, understanding regional trends can help align career choices with environments that foster growth.As India’s workforce evolves, these ten states stand out not just as employment hubs, but as markers of where men are shaping the country’s professional future.