‘Generic degrees’ like BA, B.Sc, B.Com have ‘weak job linkages’, need reforms: NITI Aayog

The NITI Aayog has highlighted that generic degree programs like BA, B.Sc, and B.Com have weak job linkages, contributing to high unemployment among graduates in India. The think tank argues that over 90% of graduates are employed in roles not aligned with their qualifications, and only 8.25% of graduates are employed in roles that utilize their qualifications.

The Aayog suggests a shift towards specialized, job-linked programs in high-growth sectors such as green industries and electric vehicles, along with a focus on apprenticeships. Currently, 13% of all graduates and 20.4% of graduate women remain unemployed, compared to the national unemployment rate of 3.2%. Furthermore, 8.7 crore individuals aged between 15 and 29 are NEET (Not in Education, Employment, or Training).

Social stigma around vocational skilling and alternative educational pathways also discourages youth from pursuing technical training. The report cites that about 47% of women, 43% of youth, and 36% of higher-education students do not pursue skilling due to a lack of awareness about the right programmes.