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As India moves progressively towards becoming a ‘knowledge

economy’it becomes increasingly important that the country should

focus on advancement of skills and these skills have to be relevant

to the emerging economic environment.

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In order to achieve the twin targets of economic growth and inclusive

development, India’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP)has to grow

consistently at 8% to 9% per Ann-um. This requires significant

progress in several areas, including infrastructure development,

agricultural growth coupled with productivity improvements,

financial sector growth, and a healthy business environment, ably

supported by a skilled workforce.

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Skill development is one of the essential ingredients for India’s future

economic growth as the country transforms into a diversified and

internationally-competitive economy. Skill development is going

to be the defining element in India’s growth story. Firstly, we need

to re-define the relationship of education, employment and skills

development. Secondly, as a very large population, India would

never be able to upskill all of its youth across the country through

the conventional education framework.

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Government systems alone cannot accomplish this task. It calls for

a concerned effort of government systems, private players and

NGOs to address the issue in a comprehensive manner. If India is

to gain its rightful place in the world, reap equal benefits and

opportunities for all and rise from the debris of poverty and several

other pressing issues, skills development will require to be given a

place right on top of national priorities.

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India is uniquely positioned to fill the gap of the industry demand

globally with its youth power. What Mechanical Revolution did to

the European economy in the 50s and Oil Revolution did to Middle

East economy in the 70s, the skilled manpower revolution can do

the same to the Indian economy, provided we are able to gauge

and see the exact requirement of the industry globally and are able

to train and certify our students to a level which is accepted by

global standards.

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The accelerated economic growth has increased the demand for

skilled manpower that has highlighted the shortage of skilled

manpower in the country. The lack of available applicants, shortage

of hard skills and shortage of suitable employability, including soft