India’s Economic Growth Vs. Unemployment Dilemma

Quick Look:

• Despite a GDP growth of 8.4% last quarter, India’s unemployment rate has barely improved, moving from 3.4% in 2013-14 to 3.2% in 2022-23.
• The government’s strategy focuses on traditional sectors and capital expenditure, which has not effectively tackled unemployment.
• Future economic forecasts are optimistic at around 6.5% growth, but job creation remains a critical challenge for the government.

India has been a standout performer in terms of GDP growth among its major peers, but this rapid economic expansion has not translated into adequate job creation. Recent data underscores a concerning trend: while the economy grew faster than expected at 8.4% in the last quarter of the previous year, the unemployment rate has shown only marginal improvement over the past decade. The Periodic Labour Force Survey revealed a slight decrease from 3.4% in 2013-14 to 3.2% in 2022-23, which starkly contrasts with the high unemployment rate of 7.6% reported by the Centre for Monitoring the Indian Economy as of March.

This discrepancy highlights a decade of near-jobless growth, with the Labour Force Participation Rate (LFPR) plummeting to levels well below those observed in the rapidly developing Asian tigers at similar demographic stages. The situation has led to an increase in the number of discouraged workers, further exacerbating the employment crisis.

The Role of India’s Government Policy in Job Creation

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, should secure a third consecutive term. The party had pledged to enhance job creation when it first came to power in 2014, yet the tangible impacts of these promises have been minimal. Critics argue that the government’s focus on traditional employment sectors such as infrastructure, manufacturing, and government jobs has not significantly shifted the unemployment needle.

A more dynamic and innovative approach is necessary to harness India’s potential demographic dividend. The current administration’s strategy of ramping up capital expenditure effectively stimulates economic growth. However, it requires a parallel emphasis on employment-centric policies. Experts suggest that without a concrete plan aimed at job creation, India might fail to capitalize fully on its demographic advantages.

Economic Forecasts and Future Directions

Looking ahead, economic forecasts remain optimistic, with growth projections for the next fiscal year hovering around 6.5% to 6.7%. However, sustaining this growth trajectory will be challenging. This will be the case, especially with fiscal prudence expected to temper government spending in the coming years. Alexandra Hermann from Oxford Economics highlights that last year’s growth benefited significantly from government expenditure. Hence, a similar boost should not be taken for granted in the future.

Moreover, with global institutions like the International Monetary Fund revising India’s growth outlook upwards, the economy’s resilience is acknowledged. Yet, the overarching challenge remains: transforming economic growth into substantial employment opportunities.

As India stands at this crossroads, the pressing task for the next government is clear. They must formulate and implement policies that stimulate economic growth. Additionally, these policies should promote substantial and sustainable job creation. Addressing this issue is imperative. It is vital not just for the nation’s economic health but also for ensuring the well-being and prosperity of its burgeoning workforce.