India is facing a critical paradox: while millions actively seek employment, a growing number of roles across industries remain unfilled. A recent analysis has spotlighted a severe skills mismatch, revealing that nearly 75% of Indian jobseekers lack the competencies required for today’s dynamic labour market.
The study, part of a broader employment review by global analysts, indicates that foundational skills like digital literacy, problem-solving, communication, and adaptability are missing in large segments of the workforce—especially among those entering the job market fresh from education.
Entry-level roles in sectors such as logistics, retail, hospitality, IT, and healthcare now demand hybrid skillsets—often a blend of technical know-how, behavioural intelligence, and a capacity to work with AI-enabled tools. However, employers report a struggle to find candidates who meet these evolving criteria.
“India doesn’t just have a job shortage—it has a capability crisis,” the report noted, echoing concerns voiced in recent columns by prominent economic commentators.
The issue is particularly acute in semi-urban and rural areas, where access to quality training and exposure to real-world job expectations remains limited. Industry leaders and policymakers alike are urging a rethinking of skilling frameworks, pushing for more job-linked, modular, and continuous learning models.
While government schemes like Skill India and private sector initiatives have made inroads, the demand-supply gap in employable talent is far from bridged.
With automation and AI transforming even frontline roles, experts warn that unless India revamps its skilling ecosystem at scale, the demographic dividend could quickly turn into a drag on economic growth.
Source – https://www.bwpeople.in/article/indias-jobseekers-face-major-skill-deficit-564278