Why is India’s 60-70% Graduates Unfit for Jobs ?

India is grappling with a severe employability crisis, with 60-70% of its graduates deemed unemployable, according to a report by the Ministry of Human Resource Development. Despite producing approximately 8 million graduates annually, only 2.5 million secure employment, highlighting the disconnect between academic qualifications and industry requirements.

India is facing a critical employability crisis, with 60-70% of its graduates deemed unfit for the job market, according to a report by the Ministry of Human Resource Development. Despite producing approximately 8 million graduates annually, only 2.5 million successfully secure employment, highlighting a significant gap between academic training and industry needs. This alarming trend underscores the systemic challenges plaguing India’s education system, which remains largely theoretical and disconnected from practical job market demands.  

Experts attribute the low employability to several key factors. A theory-focused education system prioritises rote learning over practical skills, leaving graduates ill-prepared for workplace challenges. The lack of collaboration between academia and industries results in outdated curricula that fail to meet the needs of a rapidly evolving job market. Furthermore, skill development programs remain insufficient, with limited focus on emerging technologies and soft skills crucial for employability. Curriculum gaps exacerbate the issue, with many institutions lagging in incorporating modern, job-oriented subjects.  

Industry leaders have identified specific skills that are increasingly in demand. These include data science, artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML), digital marketing, e-commerce, cloud computing, cybersecurity, and essential communication and interpersonal skills. Experts like Dr. Anil Sahasrabudhe, Chairman of the All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE), have called for a shift from degree-centric to skill-focused education. NASSCOM President Debjani Ghosh echoed this sentiment, emphasising the need for stronger industry-academia collaboration to address employability challenges.  

To tackle the issue, the Indian government has launched several initiatives aimed at bridging the skill gap. Programs such as the National Skill Development Mission, Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PMKVY), and the University Grants Commission’s (UGC) Skill Development Initiative focus on training individuals in industry-relevant skills and fostering employability. However, experts warn that these efforts must be scaled up and integrated more effectively into the mainstream education system.  

The employability crisis calls for a coordinated effort between policymakers, educational institutions, and industries to revamp the education model. A greater emphasis on skill development, practical training, and industry partnerships is essential to align education with job market demands. Without such reforms, India risks wasting its vast talent pool, perpetuating unemployment despite a growing economy.