Skill development has transcended its scope from the lexicon of good-to-have to a necessity to thrive in the current volatile and tightening job market. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has championed the essentiality of skill development time and again making it clear that skills are the kingpins of the nation’s development. Speaking at the Pariksha Pe Charcha (PPC) 2025, the PM reiterated his firm conviction in the transformative power of skills, unveiling that if not for politics, he would have chosen a career in the Skill Development Ministry. Modi said at the PPC 2025 event that, “Skill development is not just about employment; it is about empowering individuals to contribute meaningfully to society.” He further added, “If our youth are equipped with the right skills, they will not only secure better careers but also drive India’s progress on the global stage.”
His words reverberate and echo a crucial shift – once considered a supplementary asset, skill development had become the cornerstone of employability and progress. Here’s how cultivating the right skill set will provide you with an edge.
PM Modi’s advocacy for skill development stems from the vision for a self-reliant and progressive country. His emphasis on equipping the youth with practical abilities reflects his belief that education should go beyond textbooks and prepare students for the dynamic needs of the workforce. Here’s how developing the right skills will help you thrive:
Increased chances of employability and economic growth
The economic growth of a nation hinges on the skills possessed by its citizens. No wonder, Modi strongly backs skill development. It hugely influences the impact of employment opportunities. With industries evolving rapidly, there is a growing demand for a workforce armed with practical skills. In a fiercely competitive academic environment, students have shifted their focus from practical skill development and knowledge to rote learning. However, years down the line, when students enter the workforce they encounter challenges in pursuing tasks that demands practical knowledge. With industries seeping into various domains, there is an increasing demand for a workforce armed with practical skills. By promoting skill development, PM envisions a future where young students are better prepared for job markets, thereby mitigating unemployment rates and boosting economic growth.
Encouraging entrepreneurship and innovation
Alongside skill development, Modi has also emphasised skills development that fosters entrepreneurship by initiating programs such as “Make in India”. It will not only help India take steps toward attaining self-reliance but also will help better the economic picture of the country.
Preparing for a technologically advanced future
With artificial intelligence pervading every industry from cubicles to classrooms, exceptions are rare to find. Automation and artificial intelligence reshape industries, and skill development becomes important for staying relevant in the digital age. Well, whether AI will be equipped enough to take human jobs is withheld in the future, but one who fails to co-exist with advancing technology will be on the brink of losing their jobs. PM emphasises the need for technical training, coding, and digital literacy to ensure that India’s youth can outperform on the international stage and lead in emerging technologies.
Strengthening rural and semi-urban workforce
Skill development can not reside within urban boundaries, it is essential that it effectively penetrates the rural and semi-urban niches of the nation. Numerous initiatives at national level have pushed for training initiatives in agriculture, handcrafts, and local industries to empower rural communities. By equipping them with the right skills, the government aims to bolster local communities to lessen migration to cities in pursuit of work.
Promoting self-reliance and confidence
Beyond employment, skill development empowers individuals with self-confidence and financial independence. This aligns with PM Modi’s future vision of our nation where youth do not excessively rely on traditional jobs but have the ability to create opportunities for themselves. Attaining skills in areas such as craftsmanship, digital marketing, and trade increases personal growth and contributes to societal progress.
