IT job crisis? Blinkit’s 1 software developer Bengaluru opening sees over 13,000 applicants in a day

A job posting for the role of Software Development Engineer at the quick commerce platform, Blinkit, has ignited discussions online after a user shared screenshots revealing its astonishing response. The Bengaluru-based opening attracted an overwhelming 13,451 applications within just 24 hours, highlighting the intense competition in the tech job market.

The viral screenshots, originally posted on X (formerly Twitter), quickly gained traction, with many users expressing their thoughts on the situation. The data revealed that the majority of applicants—74%—were entry-level professionals, while 13% had senior-level experience. Additionally, 86% of those who applied held a bachelor’s degree, whereas 12% had a master’s degree.

The internet was baffled

The sheer volume of applications for a single position sparked concern and debate on social media. Many users pointed out the increasing demand for software engineering roles in contrast to the limited opportunities available. Others commented on the challenges faced by job seekers in an industry where thousands are competing for a handful of positions. One user shared their hiring experience, stating that half of the applicants apply without much thought, 30% lack the necessary skills, 15% don’t respond to calls, and the remaining 5% often decline offers. Another pointed out that the sheer number of applications isn’t surprising, as the “easy apply” feature allows people to send applications without much consideration—only a small percentage would be serious if called for an interview. Someone questioned whether the job market had become this challenging, while another user emphasized the need for AI-driven screening to filter candidates more efficiently.

India’s IT Hiring Slows in 2024

The Indian IT job market in 2024 faced significant challenges, with hiring activity dipping by around 7% compared to the previous year, according to data from TeamLease Edtech. The slowdown was largely attributed to global economic uncertainties and shifting macroeconomic conditions.


Fresh graduate hiring remained sluggish, with growth ranging from just 2% to 15% across various tech domains. Additionally, many companies delayed onboarding campus recruits due to inconsistent project pipelines, a trend that industry experts link to global political factors.

However, the outlook appears more promising. The demand for specialized skills—particularly in AI and data science—is on the rise, and a growing focus on Tier 2 cities suggests a shift in hiring patterns.