Building a future-ready workforce through continuous skilling, digital literacy and stronger industry collaboration will be critical for achieving the vision of Viksit Bharat by 2047, experts said during a webinar organised by Samhita on July 10.

Titled “Futureproofing Jobs: Skilling for a Viksit Bharat,” the webinar brought together representatives from government, industry and the corporate social responsibility (CSR) sector to discuss the changing nature of work amid rapid technological advancements, climate change and evolving industry demands.

The discussion centred on the need to prepare India’s workforce for emerging opportunities while addressing challenges posed by artificial intelligence (AI), informal employment and the transition to a green economy.

Speakers noted that while AI is transforming workplaces and automating routine tasks, it is also creating new employment opportunities. They stressed the importance of equipping students and professionals with digital skills, problem-solving abilities, creativity and communication skills to remain competitive in the changing job market.

The panel also highlighted the need to address India’s large informal workforce, where many workers lack job security and social protection. Vocational training, industry-recognised certifications and practical skill development were identified as key measures to improve employability and facilitate access to more secure and better-paying jobs.

Another major focus of the discussion was the growing demand for green skills as industries adopt sustainable business practices. Experts pointed to rising opportunities in sectors such as renewable energy, electric mobility, sustainable construction and environmental management, urging educational institutions and training providers to align programmes with emerging industry requirements.

The role of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) in strengthening India’s skilling ecosystem also featured prominently during the webinar. Panellists said companies are increasingly investing in digital education, vocational training, entrepreneurship and community development programmes to improve employability and promote inclusive growth. They emphasised that collaboration among government, industry, educational institutions and civil society organisations would be essential to create an equitable and future-ready workforce.

The webinar featured Arunkumar Pillai, CEO of the National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC); Manisha Saboo, Head of Infosys Foundation; Manju Dhasmana, Senior Director, CSR, Microsoft India; Jagdish Acharya, CEO of the Paints & Coatings Skill Council; Gauri Bhure, CSR Head at DXC Technology; and Priya Naik, Founder and CEO of Samhita.

The speakers agreed that continuous learning, stronger public-private partnerships and industry-aligned skill development would play a key role in enhancing India’s workforce competitiveness and supporting the country’s long-term economic growth ambitions under the Viksit Bharat 2047 vision.