India's electronics manufacturing sector is on an accelerated growth path, with projections indicating a 25-30% CAGR by 2030. With demand for priority components like PCBAs (Printed Circuit Board Assemblies) expected to reach $139 billion and semiconductor consumption projected to hit $110 billion, the industry is set to play a crucial role in India’s economic expansion.
However, despite this remarkable growth, the sector faces a significant challenge, a shortage of skilled manpower. As technology advances and global supply chains evolve, the demand for a highly skilled workforce continues to rise. Bridging the skill gap is critical to sustaining this momentum and ensuring that India remains a competitive hub for electronics manufacturing.
One of the most effective ways to address this workforce challenge is through apprenticeship programs, which are gaining traction as a sustainable model for talent development.
The Growth of Electronics Apprenticeships
In recent years, apprenticeship programs have seen tremendous growth in the electronics industry. As of 2023-24, apprenticeship positions in electronics have reached a cumulative total of 91,341 apprentices, accounting for 58% of the 158,955 apprentices across electronics, renewables and repair & maintenance sectors.
This momentum is expected to continue, with apprentice enrollment in the electronics sector projected to reach 1 million by 2027, driven by an annual growth rate of 55%.
This expansion has been fueled by a collaborative approach among government bodies, industry stakeholders and skill development organizations like the Electronics Sector Skills Council of India (ESSCI). These entities play a pivotal role in aligning training programs with industry demands, ensuring that apprentices gain relevant, job-ready skills.
Additionally, the ESSCI supports over 50 diverse apprenticeship courses, catering to various roles within the industry. This structured approach to on-the-job training is preparing a workforce that can seamlessly transition into full-time employment, addressing the industry’s talent needs effectively.
How Apprenticeships are Transforming Workforce Development
Electronics apprenticeships offer a structured pathway to skill-building and employment. Here’s how they are making an impact:
Learning by Doing
Apprenticeships emphasize hands-on training, allowing individuals to gain practical experience with cutting-edge electronics manufacturing technologies. This bridges the gap between theoretical knowledge and real-world application.
Earning While Learning
Unlike traditional education models, apprenticeships enable individuals to earn a stipend while acquiring valuable skills, making them a financially viable option for many aspiring professionals.
Cost-Effective Talent Development
For employers, apprenticeship programs reduce hiring and training costs by providing skilled candidates who are already familiar with industry requirements, resulting in higher productivity and lower attrition rates.
Creating a Sustainable Talent Pipeline
By investing in apprenticeship programs, the electronics industry can build a steady pipeline of skilled workers, ensuring long-term sustainability and reduced dependency on external talent sources.
Enhancing Employability
Apprenticeships equip candidates with industry-relevant skills, significantly increasing their chances of securing full-time employment in high-demand roles across the electronics sector.
As India’s electronics manufacturing sector continues its rapid expansion, closing the skill gap is imperative for sustained growth. Electronics apprenticeships have emerged as a powerful tool to develop a future-ready workforce in the industry, ensuring that both employers and job seekers benefit from structured, hands-on training programs.
Our recent report explores the key factors that will drive further drive the growth of electronics apprenticeships in India and its significance in building a skilled workforce
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