The Indian employment scenario has shown incremental growth in various sectors, as reported by the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI) through the Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS) and the Quarterly Employment Survey (QES). Recent data reflects an upward trajectory in the infrastructure-related industries, signaling positive strides in the job market.
According to the Annual PLFS Reports, major industries linked to the infrastructure sector witnessed an increase in employment during 2022-23 in comparison to 2020-21. The manufacturing sector saw a rise in workers to 11.4% from 10.9% in 2020-21, while the construction sector marked an increase to 13.0% from 12.1% during the same period.
Total employment increased in non-farm economy
The QES conducted by the Labour Bureau highlighted a substantial increase in total employment across nine sectors of the non-farm economy, estimating 3.18 crore jobs in the fourth round (January-March 2022). Notably, the manufacturing sector accounted for 38.5% and the construction sector for 1.9% of total employment.
The Labour Force Participation Rate (LFPR) for individuals aged 15 years and above also displayed an upward trend, standing at 54.9%, 55.2%, and 57.9% during 2020-21, 2021-22, and 2022-23, respectively.
The central government has introduced several initiatives to bolster employment opportunities. The e-Shram portal, launched in August 2021, amassed registrations of around 1.33 crore unorganized workers across 400 occupations, with substantial participation from Odisha (85.44 lakh) and Tamil Nadu (1.33 crore).
Further, the Employees’ Provident Fund Organization (EPFO) data signifies the formalization of the job market, highlighting the net addition in EPFO subscriptions as a measure of social security coverage for organized/semi-organized sector workers.
Govt’s initiatives
Government initiatives such as the Aatmanirbhar Bharat package, Aatmanirbhar Bharat Rojgar Yojana (ABRY), PM SVANidhi Scheme, and Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojana (PMMY) have provided stimulus, fiscal support, and collateral-free loans to businesses and individuals, fostering job creation and entrepreneurial activities.
The Production Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme, with an outlay of Rs. 1.97 lakh crore over five years, holds the potential for generating 60 lakh new jobs. Additionally, PM GatiShakti, focusing on infrastructure development, anticipates a surge in employment opportunities through clean energy and logistics infrastructure.
Moreover, flagship programs such as Make in India, Start-up India, Stand-up India, Digital India, and Housing for All are aligned toward fostering employment prospects across diverse sectors.