Abstract

Education skill development and employment are deeply interconnected components of socio-economic progress in India. In a rapidly transforming global economy the ability of a nation to equip its population with relevant knowledge practical skills and employability competencies determines its development trajectory. India possesses one of the largest youth populations in the world which offers a significant demographic dividend however this potential can only be realized if the education system successfully aligns with labour market requirements. Despite substantial policy initiatives and reforms the Indian education system continues to face numerous structural and functional challenges that hinder the effective transition of students from education to employment. These challenges include outdated curricula inadequate industry linkages insufficient vocational training opportunities regional disparities in educational access and a persistent mismatch between acquired skills and employer