India, the second most populous country in the world, boasts an abundance of skilled labor. With over 54% of its population under the age of 25 and more than 62% within the working age group (15-59 years), India has a tremendous demographic advantage. By 2020, the average age of an Indian was estimated to be 29 years. This youthful workforce can not only drive domestic growth but also address skill shortages in advanced economies with aging populations.
Skill India, launched in 2015, builds on the 2009 policy aimed at creating a skilled workforce. The National Policy on Skill Development and Entrepreneurship seeks to achieve skill development with speed, standards, and sustainability. The vision is to create a workforce with improved skills, knowledge, and internationally recognized qualifications, making Indian youth globally competitive.
A significant challenge in India is the traditional education system, which places limited emphasis on vocational training. Unlike China, where vocational education is integral to the schooling system, India has lagged in integrating skill development into mainstream education. This gap has hindered India’s manufacturing and economic growth potential.
To address this, India has established an ecosystem where public and private sectors collaborate through bodies like the National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC). This partnership aims to tap into the global market for skilled labor, leveraging India’s youthful demographic to meet worldwide demands.
The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the importance of skills and adaptability. During lockdowns, digital platforms enabled students and professionals to continue learning and working from home. This shift towards digital education and remote work underscores the resilience and relevance of skill development, even in crises.
The Skill India campaign is crucial for India's development. By focusing on skill, scale, and speed, India aims to transform into a "Kushal Bharat" (Skilled India) and "Atmanirbhar Bharat" (Self-reliant India). The benefits of a skilled workforce are evident in economic growth and job creation. As young people enter the workforce each year, maintaining job quality and opportunities is essential.
India has made strides in recent years with the rise of startups and increased opportunities for youth. Encouraging entrepreneurship and innovative thinking over traditional employment can further bolster economic growth. Money is not the sole determinant of business success; ideas, research, confidence, and patience play crucial roles.
In summary, Skill India is a pivotal initiative for empowering India's youth. With a focus on enhancing skills, scaling initiatives, and speeding up implementation, India can leverage its demographic dividend to achieve sustained economic growth and global competitiveness. The vision is clear: a skilled workforce is not just an asset but a cornerstone for a prosperous future.