Union Minister of Labour & Employment and Youth Affairs & Sports, Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, chaired an inter-ministerial roundtable on employment data today in New Delhi. The meeting aimed to establish a systematic approach for compiling regular employment data from schemes, programmes, and projects by fostering synergies across various Ministries and Departments.
Union Minister of Commerce and Industry, Shri Piyush Goyal, was also present and praised the Ministry of Labour & Employment for initiating the Inter-Ministerial consultation, advocating for it to become a regular practice.
Dr. Mandaviya emphasized that the Union Budget 2024-25 is focused on youth and employment. He detailed the innovative Employment Linked Incentive (ELI) package in the Budget, comprising three schemes designed to benefit both employers and employees, thereby boosting job creation. Additionally, he highlighted the labour reforms introduced in the Budget, including the enhancement of the eShram portal and the revamping of the Samadhan and Shram Suvidha Portals.
Dr. Mandaviya stressed the necessity of integrating various employment data sources across the Government of India. While acknowledging that multiple ministries and departments are executing numerous schemes and projects that generate substantial employment, he noted that the data is currently fragmented.
He stated, “We need to establish connections among different employment data sources, consolidating and integrating them to create a system that provides a comprehensive picture of employment generation in the country.”
To advance these objectives, the Union Minister proposed forming a Core Group comprising various Ministries, Departments, and Industry representatives. This group will meet regularly to enhance synergies and integrate efforts that currently exist in isolation.
Acknowledging the industry’s need for a skilled workforce, Dr. Mandaviya highlighted the importance of equipping the youth with the necessary skills and professional qualifications. He encouraged industry bodies to identify young talent and provide internship opportunities, helping secure jobs and collaborate with the government to enhance livelihoods.
During the high-level meeting, senior officials from 19 different Ministries and Departments, along with representatives from industry associations such as the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce & Industry (FICCI) and the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII), participated in a vigorous brainstorming session, offering valuable suggestions and insights.