Secretary of Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, Atul Kumar Tiwari Interviewed

The Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship: A Decade of Impactful Growth

Next year, the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE) will mark its 10-year anniversary. In an exclusive interview with FE’s Vikram Chaudhary, Atul Kumar Tiwari, secretary of MSDE, reflects on the achievements made during this period, the challenges ahead, and the growing realization among students that practical, hands-on training can lead to better job prospects. Here are the key highlights from the conversation:

India’s Global Presence in the Skilled Workforce

India has the potential to emerge as a significant supplier of skilled workers in various sectors. While job opportunities in foreign markets are subject to visa agreements and mobility rules, Indians have been excelling in knowledge-based economies, including the digital and green sectors. Additionally, Indians are also performing well in banking, information technology, construction, engineering, hospitality, and travel & tourism.

Apprenticeship Training: The Path to Success

With over 500,000 apprentices in India, this form of training has gained traction. However, it remains a small proportion of the overall workforce. There are two types of apprenticeship training:

• Designated trade: This includes occupations notified by the government, primarily related to the traditional manufacturing sector.
• Optional trade: It allows apprentices to pursue occupations determined by the industry. Optional trades are gaining popularity, with almost 60% of apprentices opting for this path, reflecting the growth of India’s services sector.

The industry has begun recognizing the mutual benefits of apprenticeships. Companies provide on-the-job training and a stipend to apprentices, which allows them to shape and mold individuals according to their specific requirements. This creates a win-win situation as it leads to low attrition rates, enhances productivity, and ultimately contributes to the overall economy. Notably, the MSME sector is also embracing apprenticeship opportunities.

The Role of AI in the Jobs Market

Genuine concern exists among the general population regarding the impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on employment. While there is a perception that white-collar jobs may be more affected by generative AI such as ChatGPT, it’s crucial to view modern technology as a tool to increase productivity. While certain jobs may face risks due to AI advancements, all employees should embrace technology as an opportunity and utilize it to their advantage. Upskilling and reskilling, including metacognitive skills, such as analytical and problem-solving abilities, remain essential. Governments cannot control the job market, which is largely market-driven, but they can play a role in preparing individuals for various employment opportunities and harnessing the benefits of emerging technologies like AI.

Challenges and State Cooperation in Skilling India

As Skill India nears its 10-year milestone, the challenges ahead involve ensuring consistent skilling efforts and maintaining collaborative efforts between the central and state governments. Skilling falls under the Concurrent List, allowing both levels of government to legislate in this realm. Several states have made significant progress in skilling initiatives. Since its establishment in 2014, the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship has laid a strong foundation for the skilling ecosystem, garnering support from various states and industries. The increasing understanding that practical, hands-on training can lead to better job opportunities has transformed skilling into an integral part of India’s education continuum.

Editor Notes

Promoting Skills and Empowering Individuals

Skilling initiatives, such as those undertaken by the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, play a vital role in empowering individuals and driving economic growth. By prioritizing practical training, these programs equip students and workers with the skills needed to excel in the job market. As the world continues to evolve, embracing emerging technologies like AI is crucial, and governments must focus on preparing individuals for the future of work. Through ongoing upskilling and reskilling efforts, we can create a workforce ready to seize the opportunities and overcome the challenges of the ever-changing job landscape.

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