India’s workforce transformation: Preparing for a dynamic global economy
By Doruvu Paul Jagan Babu: Assistant Chief Editor
New Delhi: The Ministry of Labour and Employment (MoLE) and Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) hosted the “Conference on Future of Jobs” on Wednesday, in New Delhi, focusing on skilling, sustainability, and inclusivity to build a future-ready workforce.
Policymakers and experts chart workforce strategies
Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, Minister of Labour and Employment, emphasized the need for skill development, aligning education with employment, and fostering innovation to make India a global talent hub. Initiatives like the Mutual Recognition of Skills and Standards were highlighted as key to addressing global workforce shortages.
Skilling for tomorrow: Practicality over certificates
The conference underscored the importance of industry-academia partnerships and practical skilling models. Dr. Mandaviya called for skilling programs that prioritize real-world expertise over mere certifications to prepare individuals for dynamic industry needs and self-employment.
Inclusivity and sustainability: Cornerstones of growth
Sumita Dawra, Secretary, MoLE, stressed the need for a digitally proficient and inclusive workforce. As industries adopt eco-friendly practices, workforce culture must integrate sustainability values. She highlighted India’s leadership in Global Capability Centres (GCCs) as a testament to its technological prowess.
Sectoral insights: Opportunities and challenges
Manufacturing: CII’s Vinod Sharma proposed a National Employment Policy and a Universal Labour Management Information System to address industry challenges. He urged investments in upskilling, reskilling, and apprenticeship programs.
Green jobs: Suzlon Group’s Rajendra Mehta noted the transition to clean energy could create over 10 million jobs globally by 2030, spotlighting roles in renewable energy and sustainability.
Hospitality and Tourism: Ajay Dutta of Indian Hotels Company Limited emphasized post-pandemic growth and the potential of niche tourism sectors. He called for ‘Industry Status’ for the sector to boost employment.
Smart manufacturing: Rockwell Automation’s Dilip Sawhney linked smart manufacturing to India’s economic goals, advocating for advanced technological training to empower the workforce.
Logistics: TVS Supply Chain’s Sukumar K, highlighted transformative policies like the PM Gati Shakti Master Plan, while Safexpress’ Anil Syal underscored trends in AI and automation driving the logistics sector.
Healthcare: Fortis Healthcare’s Dr. Ashutosh Raghuvanshi addressed workforce shortages in healthcare, calling for increased government expenditure, digital health upskilling, and medical tourism hubs.
Policy recommendations for a future-ready workforce
1. Enhance skill development and technological upskilling.
2. Foster public-private partnerships for inclusive growth.
3. Promote digital literacy and sustainability values.
4. Strengthen labor-intensive industries to ensure equitable opportunities.
India’s transformation from 471.5 million jobs in 2014-15 to 643 million in 2023-24 reflects the potential of strategic investments and innovative policies to build a resilient and globally competitive workforce.
