As India progresses on its journey to become a global economic powerhouse, the role of skill development in empowering its vast youth population cannot be overstated. As of 2023, India needs to create nearly 7.85 million jobs annually in the non-farm sector to accommodate the growing workforce. The country’s skill gap is projected to reach 30-32 million by FY 2025, escalating to 47-49 million by FY 2027 and only about 51.25% of the youth are deemed employable due to a lack of necessary skills, with rural and economically disadvantaged backgrounds particularly affected.

While initiatives like Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PMKVY) have made strides in addressing unemployment and skill gaps, continuous efforts are necessary to align training programs with industry requirements and enhance the employability of India's youth.

Bridging the Skill Gap

India’s labour market faces a significant mismatch between the skills demanded by industries and those possessed by job seekers. Reports indicate that a large percentage of graduates lack the employable skills required to meet industry needs. This "skill gap" presents a challenge but also an opportunity to align education and training with market demands.

Relaxo’s CSR-driven skill development programs are designed to bridge this gap. By offering targeted training that focuses on industry-relevant skills, we ensure that youth are equipped to meet current and emerging demands. From technical know-how to soft skills like communication and teamwork, our programs are structured to create well-rounded, future-ready individuals.

Key Interventions and Initiatives

The Government of India has launched several initiatives to bridge the skill gap and enhance employability across sectors. The National Policy on Skill Development & Entrepreneurship (NPSDE) serves as a comprehensive framework aimed at bridging skill gap by leveraging technology and expanding apprenticeship opportunities, the policy emphasizes equitable access to skill development programs. Special focus is placed on marginalized groups and promoting entrepreneurship, particularly among women, to create a more inclusive and empowered workforce.

Launched in 2015, the Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PMKVY) has emerged as a flagship initiative in India's skill development ecosystem. To date, the scheme has successfully trained 1.42 crore individuals.  With over 1,000 educational institutions integrated as Skill India Centres, PMKVY has significantly expanded access to quality skill training, enabling youth to enhance their employability and contribute meaningfully to the nation’s growth.

Overall, the government’s focused approach to skilling aims to meet the demands of emerging sectors while also supporting India's economic transition toward a knowledge-driven economy.

As a socially responsible company, Relaxo’s approach to skill development is holistic and community-oriented. We recognize that skill development is not a one-size-fits-all solution. Therefore, we design training modules that are both locally relevant and nationally aligned. Our programs offers hands-on training, industry exposure, and placement support, ensuring that participants transition smoothly into the workforce.

One of the key initiative is our Parivartan Model School Development Project, which not only focuses on education but also incorporates elements of life skills development. By working with students at an early age, we aim to create a generation that is well-prepared for higher education and vocational training. This proactive approach ensures that skill development begins well before individuals enter the job market.

The impact of skill development is multi-dimensional. For youth, it is a pathway to employment, economic independence, and dignity. For communities, it is a   route to social upliftment. Moreover, for industries, it is way to secure a steady supply of skilled talent. Relaxo’s skill development initiatives have positively impacted youth, enabling them to pursue sustainable livelihoods.

Collaborations and Partnerships

Skill development requires a collaborative approach involving government bodies, educational institutions, and corporates. At Relaxo, we have actively collaborated with NGOs, training institutes, and other stakeholders to expand the reach and impact of our programs. These partnerships enable us to leverage shared resources, access specialized trainers, and enhance the employability of the youth we serve.

By aligning our initiatives with national goals, we ensure that our efforts contribute to the larger vision of a skilled India.

A Call to Action

The road ahead is clear—India’s youth must be equipped with the skills required for the future of work. Emerging technologies, automation, and digital transformation are reshaping industries, and our youth must be ready to seize these opportunities.

At Relaxo Footwears, we remain committed to this cause. Through our CSR initiatives, we are not just training individuals but transforming lives. Each trained individual represents a family’s hope, a community’s progress, and a nation's advancement. The ripple effect of empowering one youth extends far beyond the individual, fostering socio-economic development on a much larger scale.

As we continue to strengthen our efforts, we call upon industry leaders, government bodies, and community organizations to join hands in this shared mission. Together, we can create a future where every young individual has the skills, confidence, and opportunities they need to thrive.