Unemployment

Beyond GDP: The importance of reclaiming jobs in India’s growth story A holistic strategy, involving substantial investment in skill development aligned with industry needs, educational reform and infrastructure upgrades, is critical. Jimeet Modi July 16, 2025 / 18:05 IST https://www.moneycontrol.com/news/opinion/beyond-gdp-the-importance-of-reclaiming-jobs-in-india-s-growth-story-13273068.html "This disconnect between headline economic success and the lived reality of millions of jobseekers calls into question the very nature of India’s economic model: is our growth truly inclusive, or are we merely chasing GDP numbers? In response, the government's twin strategies—production-linked incentive (PLI) and employment-linked incentive (ELI) schemes—emerge as ambitious policy innovations. But to label them merely as economic interventions would be reductive. These schemes represent a pivotal philosophical shift, recognising that growth must be redefined beyond production metrics to encompass meaningful employment and equitable wealth distribution. The PLI scheme, with an impressive outlay of Rs 1.97 lakh crore, is not just an incentive programme but a strategic manoeuvre designed to position India as a global manufacturing powerhouse. By incentivising increased production, PLI indirectly fuels job creation, particularly in manufacturing hubs. However, its real test lies in its ability to scale sustainably and inclusively, avoiding the pitfalls of automation-driven growth that sidesteps human labour. In parallel, the ELI scheme signifies an unprecedented acknowledgment by policymakers: direct employment incentives matter. Allocating Rs 1 lakh crore to create 3.5 crore jobs, this scheme boldly addresses the barriers first-time jobseekers face, offering tangible financial incentives for both employers and employees. This proactive approach not only encourages formal employment but also fosters job stability and financial empowerment among India's burgeoning workforce. However, these schemes alone cannot resolve the structural misalignment that plagues India’s labour market. A holistic strategy, involving substantial investment in skill development aligned with industry needs, educational reform and infrastructure upgrades, is critical. Moreover, the success of the PLI and ELI schemes depends heavily on their implementation fidelity, transparency and continuous evaluation to adapt dynamically to evolving economic realities. As thought leaders, policymakers and corporate entities, it is imperative that we collectively challenge the current metrics of success. True growth is measured not merely by GDP increments but by job creation, equitable wealth distribution and inclusive economic participation. The PLI and ELI schemes offer a promising start, but their ultimate success will hinge on our collective willingness to prioritise inclusive, sustainable growth over short-term economic gains. India stands at a crossroads: will we simply chase growth, or will we champion development that uplifts every citizen? The choice—and the responsibility—rests with us all." more  

Most of the employment is in un organised sector.Govt does not have any statistics for them. Govt should find ways and means to count on them.Then only real unemployment figures will be known. more  

Thank you sir On Tue, Sep 11, 2018 at 1:56 PM Csn Sarma wrote: > more  

It appears the employed or Un-employed depends on whether one has a Govt job or not. I wonder, how many of the vegetable and fruit sellers and those selling other commodities in daily/ weekly markets are considered EMPLOYED? I am quite sure no one has ever bothered to find this out. WHY? Because there are no statistics available for this kind of self-employment, mainly because such self-employed people do not submit Income-Tax returns, irrespective of their amount of earnings. Most people understand 'EMPLOYMENT' as having a Government or even Private job. In fact most of the enws papers and TV channels also have no statistics available. So they rely ONLY on the number of people in the PF rolls. Even the lakhs of people who have been given loans under Govt schemes are not considered EMPLOYED, though a majority of them may be earning good money from their area of work or business and also employing others. Are the maid servants and drivers who work for various individuals considered as 'EMPLOYED". I am quite sure they are not. How many of the Cycle-Rickshaw pullers, Auto drivers and E-Rickshaw drivers are considered employed? Unfortunately available statistics are mostly based on SALARIED people and a few business houses/ Shop keepers whos income levels are high. Probably 10 times as many need to be considered "employed", but for these data is not available. more  

Is there a proper definition of being employed or unemployed? In urban sector most of heads of households may be employed or under employed. Even beggars can be taken as employed. Domestic helps, gardeners who work in several houses also earn substantially are definitely employed although in unorganized sector. I will like to know statics on employed people reflect such cases. more