8.7 crore young Indians are ‘NEET’ – not in education, employment or training, says NITI Aayog

Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah recently felicitated students who performed well in the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET), highlighting their academic achievements and encouraging them to pursue careers in medicine. The event took place in Srinagar, bringing together top-performing candidates from across the state. The recognition underscores the government's commitment to supporting educational excellence and inspiring future healthcare professionals. According to a report released by NITI Aayog, the Union government’s premier policy think tank, approximately 8.7 crore Indian youths aged between 15 and 29 fall into the category known as NEET, those who are neither enrolled in education, employment, nor training. This figure was derived from the 78th round of the National Sample Survey conducted in 2021. The report categorizes the population into five groups, including those engaged in formal education, informal work, and those who are not part of any such activity. The NEET group, which includes both men and women, faces challenges related to lack of income and the high costs associated with prior education, making it difficult for them to access additional skills training. NITI Aayog emphasized that the NEET youth require accessible and subsidized training programs, along with financial assistance, to enhance their employability. The report suggested that these initiatives should align with the demands of emerging industries and create opportunities for self-employment. It noted that combining learning with earning is crucial for improving the employability of young people, especially those who have completed higher education. However, limited exposure to practical and industry-relevant training continues to hinder job placement, even among graduates. The report also highlighted that only 8.25% of individuals who graduate from colleges find employment in roles matching their qualifications. This statistic reflects the broader challenge faced by the country’s youth in transitioning from education to meaningful employment. Students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds face additional barriers, as they often cannot afford to invest in supplementary skills training while managing college expenses. As a result, some opt for low-paying jobs immediately after graduation, while others remain unemployed and eventually join the NEET group. To tackle these issues, the report recommended integrating skill development programs into the school curriculum, starting from Class 6 through Class 12. It proposed teaching universal general employability and entrepreneurship skills during these years, alongside structured vocational pathways beginning in Class 9. Such measures, according to NITI Aayog, could help bridge the gap between education and employment, ensuring that students are better prepared for the workforce. The recent felicitation of NEET performers by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah aligns with these recommendations, as it recognizes the potential of students who have successfully navigated the challenges of academic pursuit. By celebrating academic achievement, the government aims to motivate more students to continue their studies and ultimately contribute meaningfully to society. The focus on education and skill development is expected to play a key role in addressing the growing concerns surrounding youth unemployment and underemployment in the region.