India's workforce predominantly in low-competency jobs
A new report from the Institute for Competitiveness shows that just 38% of Indian graduates work in specialized fields, while over half take up low-skill jobs like clerks or machine operators.
Even among postgraduates, nearly a third are in semi-skilled positions—so higher degrees aren't always translating into better jobs.
Need more investment in education and skill-building: Report
The report points to low educational attainment and too few quality job openings as key reasons for the mismatch.
It suggests India needs more investment in education and skill-building, plus policy changes to create high-skill roles—especially in states like Bihar and Uttar Pradesh where opportunities are scarce.
High-skill jobs can help boost economic growth
Some states like Chandigarh, Puducherry, Goa, and Kerala do a better job matching skilled workers with good jobs.
Pay also varies: low-skill roles offer minimum wages; mid-skill jobs see modest raises (5-6% a year); but high-skill professionals can expect 8-12% annual growth.
The takeaway? Moving more people into high-skill work could really pay off—for everyone.