The Future of Jobs Report highlights the significant forces driving global labour market changes by 2030. Among these, technological advancements, demographic shifts, geo-economic fragmentation, economic uncertainties, and the green transition stand out. Technological change and digital access are anticipated to play a crucial role, with 60% of employers identifying them as major drivers. At the same time, 50% of employers expect economic factors, such as job displacement, to reshape industries. Climate change mitigation is seen as a dual force, both creating jobs in renewable energy and environmental fields and requiring adaptations to business models due to geopolitical tensions. These trends point to a dynamic labour market characterised by job creation (170 million new jobs are projected) and job displacement (92 million roles could become obsolete). <\/p>\n

In response to these shifts, employers have prioritised workforce training, wage increases, and employee well-being. Notably, 59 out of every 100 workers will require training in crucial skills such as analytical thinking, resilience, and technological literacy. Emerging roles such as Big Data specialists and AI engineers are expected to see substantial growth, highlighting the need for a workforce equipped with advanced technical and cognitive skills. The emphasis on upskilling indicates that educational institutions must proactively prepare students for a competitive job market. Equally important is the integration of soft skills, such as emotional intelligence, adaptability, and leadership, into professional development programmes. Employers are increasingly valuing these attributes as critical for navigating dynamic work environments.<\/p>\n

The QS World Future Skills Index complements these findings. Ranking second globally in terms of preparedness for AI and green skills, India demonstrates considerable potential. However, the report reveals stark gaps in workforce skills, particularly on supply-side indicators. While India excels in its ability to identify and recruit for future-focused skills, as evidenced by its 99.1 score in the \u2018Future of Work\u2019 parameter, its performance in \u2018Skills Fit\u2019 \u2014 the ability of the workforce to meet these demands \u2014 lags significantly, with the country scoring just 59.1. The report also identifies deficiencies in fostering entrepreneurial and innovative mindsets, with India\u2019s overall ranking in \u2018Academic Readiness\u2019 placing it at a modest 26th position. Further, India\u2019s performance in future-oriented innovation and sustainability is alarmingly low, a mere 15.6 out of 100. Additionally, India\u2019s limited investment in research and development further worsens the issue, hindering its ability to compete globally in areas such as renewable energy technologies and climate-friendly innovations. <\/p>\n