India has seen a significant increase in its employable workforce in recent years, with more and more people joining the job market and seeking employment opportunities. This trend is particularly evident in the rise of women joining the labour force, as more and more women are breaking barriers and seeking out professional opportunities.
Economic growth
One of the major factors driving the increase in employability in India is the country’s growing economy. In the last decade, India has seen a steady rise in GDP, with an average growth rate of around 7% per year. This economic growth has led to the creation of new jobs and business opportunities, particularly in sectors such as IT, manufacturing, and service industries.
Large young population
Another factor contributing to the increase in employability in India is the country’s large and young population. With more than half of its population under the age of 25, India has a huge pool of young, educated, and skilled workers who are eager to enter the job market. This demographic advantage is particularly relevant in a world where an ageing population is becoming a concern in many developed countries.
You might also be interested to read: In Demand Skills In India
Favourable government policies
The government of India has also played a role in fostering employability by implementing policies and initiatives aimed at increasing the skills and employability of its citizens. For example, the government has launched several vocational training and skill development programs, such as the National Skill Development Corporation and the Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana, to provide training and employment opportunities to young people.
Women’s participation in the workforce
One area where India has made significant progress in increasing employability is in the participation of women in the workforce. In the past, women in India faced significant barriers to employment, including cultural norms and a lack of access to education and training. However, in recent years, there has been a significant shift in attitudes towards women’s employment, and more and more women are entering the job market.
According to the International Labor Organization (ILO), the female labour force participation rate in India increased from 25% in 1990 to nearly 30% in 2019. This trend is particularly evident in urban areas, where the female labour force participation rate is around 40%.
There are several factors contributing to the increase in women’s employment in India.
Economic & social benefits: One of the major factors is the growing recognition of the economic and social benefits of women’s employment. As more and more women enter the workforce, they are able to contribute to the economy and improve their own economic status, which in turn has a positive impact on their families and communities.
Importance of education & training: Another factor driving the increase in women’s employment in India is the growing awareness of the importance of education and training for women. In the past, women in India often had limited access to education, which hindered their employability. However, in recent years, there has been a significant increase in the enrollment of girls in schools and universities, and more and more women are completing higher levels of education. This trend is particularly evident in urban areas, where women’s education levels are higher compared to rural areas.
Government initiatives: In addition, the government of India has implemented several initiatives and policies to promote women’s employment and empowerment. For example, the government has introduced policies such as the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act, which provides employment opportunities to women in rural areas, and the Pradhan Mantri Mahila Udyam Nidhi Scheme, which provides financial assistance to women entrepreneurs.
While there is still room for improvement, the country’s growing economy, young and educated population, and initiatives to promote education and training for women have all contributed to this trend. With continued efforts to foster employability, India has the potential to become a major player in the global job market with the employable workforce multiplying quickly.
References:
- The Wheebox India Skills Report 2023
- India’s Employable Talent Rises, women workforce increases | Livemint | December 13, 2022
You might also be interested to read: Unemployability – A Bigger Problem Than Unemployment
