India Secures Top Rank in Future Work and Digital Skills
India, ranked 25th overall, is classified as a "future skills contender," indicating its considerable advancement in preparing its workforce for future challenges. Significantly, the nation holds the second position globally in the "future of work" metric with a score of 99.1, trailing only behind the United States, which secured a perfect 100.
India has been acknowledged as the second top country worldwide in readiness for future job market needs, particularly in fields like artificial intelligence (AI), digital technologies, and sustainable industries. This accomplishment is emphasized in the first QS World Future Skills Index, released by the UK-based educational company QS, which assesses the preparedness of nations to address changing global workforce demands.
Emerging sectors such as healthcare, semiconductor production, green employment, drone technology, and AI are fueling the need for specialized expertise. However, merely a portion of India’s labor force fulfills employability criteria, according to the World Economic Forum and the International Labour Organization (ILO).
Despite the encouraging acknowledgment, India encounters considerable workforce issues. A September 2024 report from the National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC) highlighted a shortage of skilled workers, demand at 103 million compared to a supply of 74 million.