Blog

Sumit Kumar, our Chief Strategy Officer, highlighted the transformative potential of apprenticeships in the electronics industry, addressing critical skill shortages and enhancing workforce productivity.

Apprenticeships serve as a pivotal solution to India's skill gap crisis in the electronics sector, offering a blend of classroom education and hands-on experience. This approach not only equips apprentices with practical skills but also meets the specific demands of employers, thereby establishing a steady supply of qualified professionals.

Over recent years, the electronics industry in India has witnessed a remarkable surge in apprenticeship engagements. Starting with 7,500 apprentices in 2019-20, the numbers have surged to an impressive 91,900 by 2023-24, marking a significant 12.2X increase. This growth underscores the industry's commitment to leveraging apprenticeships as a strategic tool for fostering talent development.

Kumar emphasizes apprenticeship programmes as a multifaceted strategy contributing to formal employment, enhanced productivity, and the creation of a skilled workforce. The National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme (NAPS) has been instrumental, facilitating the participation of over 9.3 lakhs apprentices in the electronics sector alone over the past three years. This initiative not only supports industry growth but also bolsters workforce capabilities across related sectors.

The success of apprenticeships in India aligns with the objectives of the 'Skill India' initiative, driving

economic growth and offering a compelling Return on Investment (ROI) for both employers and apprentices. Kumar underscores how these programmes elevate income levels and provide a structured career pathway for youth, thereby promoting economic inclusivity.

Furthermore, apprenticeships play a crucial role in promoting diversity within the workforce. The number of female apprentices has seen a significant rise, from 7,228 in 2018-19 to 1,93,630 in 2023-24, illustrating their pivotal role in empowering individuals from diverse backgrounds and fostering innovation across industries.

Apprenticeships in the electronics industry not only bridge critical skill gaps but also nurture talent, drive inclusive growth, and support India's economic ambitions. As apprenticeships continue to evolve as a preferred pathway to employment, their impact on workforce development and industry sustainability remains unparalleled.

The content is an excerpt from Sumit’s interview with SMEFutures. For detailed insights from Sumit, please refer to the article in SME Futures