India’s Path to Job Creation: A Strategic Approach
The Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) has put forth a compelling case for the upcoming annual budget for FY26, advocating for measures aimed at enhancing employment generation. As India stands on the brink of becoming the world’s most populous nation, the need for job creation has never been more pressing. With a median age of just 29 years, India is poised to add 133 million people to its working-age population by 2050. This demographic shift presents both challenges and opportunities. The CII emphasizes that engaging the youth productively is essential for driving inclusive growth.
A Seven-Point Agenda for Employment Generation
CII has proposed a comprehensive seven-point agenda to harness India’s demographic dividend. This agenda includes the establishment of an integrated national employment policy, support for labor-intensive sectors, and the creation of an international mobility authority. The integrated national employment policy aims to unify various employment-generating schemes currently managed by different ministries and states. By consolidating these efforts, the government can streamline job creation initiatives and enhance their effectiveness.
Additionally, CII suggests launching an internship program in rural government offices for college-educated youth. This initiative would not only provide short-term employment opportunities but also bridge the gap between education and professional skills. By augmenting manpower resources in rural areas, the program would facilitate the effective implementation of various government initiatives. Such targeted measures are crucial for addressing the employment challenges faced by the youth in India.
Enhancing Women’s Workforce Participation
CII has highlighted the importance of increasing women’s participation in the workforce, which currently remains low. To address this issue, the organization proposes several initiatives. These include constructing dormitories using Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) funds, formalizing sectors like the care economy, and establishing government-supported creches in industrial clusters. By creating a supportive environment for women, these initiatives can significantly boost female labor force participation.
Moreover, the rollout of new labor codes that ensure social security coverage for gig and platform workers is essential. This would not only strengthen the employment landscape but also provide much-needed security for workers in an increasingly flexible job market. By focusing on women’s participation and worker security, India can tap into a vast reservoir of talent that remains underutilized.
Leveraging Global Opportunities Through International Mobility
As many countries face workforce shortages due to aging populations, India has a unique opportunity to leverage this global trend. CII recommends the establishment of an international mobility authority under the Ministry of External Affairs. This authority would facilitate government-to-government collaborations, helping Indian youth access overseas employment opportunities.
In conjunction with the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, the authority could develop skill enhancement programs aligned with global job markets. These programs should not only focus on technical skills but also include cultural training and foreign language skills. By preparing the youth for international opportunities, India can position itself as a key player in the global workforce.
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