NEW DELHI, AUG 23 (AGENCIES): An estimated 8.7 crore Indians aged 15-29 are not in employment, education or training (NEET), according to a NITI Aayog report based on the 2021 National Sample Survey.
The report, Reimagining Skilling for Viksit Bharat@2047, said NEET youth face financial barriers to acquiring new skills due to lack of income and the cost of previous education.
It called for affordable or subsidised training, financial support and opportunities to learn while earning, with skilling aligned to local demand and emerging sectors. The report also highlighted a major education-employment mismatch, noting that only 8.25% of graduates work in jobs matching their qualifications. Limited practical exposure and industry-aligned training were cited as key factors affecting employability.
It recommended greater focus on reskilling, self-employment and practical training, particularly for NEET youth and women.
Since 2014-15, more than 7.67 crore people have been trained, the report said.
Monday, August 24, 2026