8.7 crore Indian youth were outside education, employment or training, highlighting India’s growing youth skills gap, according to a report by NITI Aayog. The figure covers people aged between 15 to 29 and is based on data from the 78th National Sample Survey round conducted in 2021. NITI Aayog’s report, Reimagining Skilling for Viksit Bharat@2047, argues that India needs more affordable and flexible routes into education, training, employment and self-employment. It also recommends introducing employability and entrepreneurship skills from Grade 6 and structured vocational pathways from Grade 9. The report stresses on apprenticeships, flexible learning and stronger links between training providers and local employers. For students, the message is clear; academic qualifications should be supported by practical, digital, communication and workplace skills. Early career awareness can also help students make better education and course choices.
8.7 Crore Indian Youth Face Education and Skills Gap
