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India’s unemployment rate has been a key issue over the years, with fluctuating figures often driven by the disparity between labor force participation and job creation.

The recent coverage by NDTV highlights that while unemployment rates remain steady, the labor force participation rate is on the rise. However, this paints only part of the picture. The bigger issue at play is not just the lack of jobs but the lack of job-ready candidates. In an economy that is increasingly driven by technology and evolving business models, job-specific skills are critical.

The Skills Conundrum

The challenge in India is often one of unemployability rather than unemployment. Millions of young Indians graduate every year, but a significant number of them do not possess the skills that industries are looking for.

Our CEO Ramesh Alluri Reddy shared with NDTV that the gap between what is taught in classrooms and what is required in the workplace is widening. This mismatch is one of the primary reasons for the rising unemployability in India.

Apprenticeships: A Path Forward

This is where apprenticeships play a pivotal role. Unlike traditional education, apprenticeships offer a hybrid approach that combines theoretical learning with hands-on experience. Through apprenticeship programs, individuals are not just taught concepts but are also exposed to real-world scenarios where they can apply their knowledge. This helps bridge the skills gap effectively and prepares young professionals to enter the workforce with job-ready skills.

For industries, the benefits of apprenticeship programs are manifold. Employers can ensure that apprentices are trained according to the specific needs of the company and the industry. This not only creates a steady pipeline of skilled workers but also reduces the cost of hiring and training. Apprenticeships also lead to higher retention rates, as individuals are more likely to stay with a company where they have been trained.

Growth of Apprenticeships in India

In recent years, apprenticeships in India have gained momentum across various sectors, such as manufacturing, IT, and services. The government has also recognized the importance of this model and introduced several initiatives to encourage companies to adopt apprenticeship programs. Sumit Kumar, Chief Strategy Officer at TeamLease Degree Apprenticeship, remarks, “Apprenticeships have the potential to revolutionize the Indian job market. By giving people the opportunity to learn on the job, we are addressing both the skills gap and the employment challenge.”

As India continues to grapple with issues of employability, apprenticeships present a viable solution that benefits both individuals and industries. They are a pathway to ensuring that the workforce is equipped with the necessary skills to meet the demands of the evolving economy.

For more insights into India’s unemployment trends and the role of skill development, check out the full feature on NDTV