As of 2025, 65% of India’s population is under the age of 35 (source: Press Information Bureau), and according to the Skills India Report 2025, 54.81% of graduates in India are ready for employment. The mentioned statistics suggest a crucial factor: although India’s population is young and employable, the employability rate among them is very low. Earlier in the day, educational qualifications were the only approach to secure employment. Today, employers value candidates who demonstrate practical skills and industry readiness, in addition to conceptual knowledge. For India’s youth, the key to long-term employability lies in combining educational degrees with relevant skill development.
Difference between Theoretical and Practical Skills
College learning lays the foundation for theoretical knowledge and is of utmost importance. It helps candidates develop structured learning, in-depth knowledge, discipline, critical thinking, and represents formal recognition of candidates’ theoretical capabilities. Colleges do not prepare students for real-world demands; instead, they inculcate specific domain knowledge in their initial years. It’s the candidate’s responsibility to develop skills through skill development courses or by gaining hands-on experience in their field. Nevertheless, in an interview, if a candidate fails to demonstrate practical skills or doesn’t meet industry requirements, their chances of employability decrease
Here is a real-life case of a girl in India who passed her graduation with flying colours. She achieved 10 trophies and 50 certifications and was a DU topper. After graduation, she started searching for employment opportunities. However, she was unable to obtain them, as she lacked the necessary skills and industry exposure needed to secure them.
How to Develop Skills?
There are skill development institutes offering skill development courses to students at a reasonable rate. Acquiring practical skills not only boosts your employability chances but also helps for a sustainable and long-lasting career. If you don’t want financial expense but still want to acquire skills, then you can opt for a government-backed apprenticeship program or the Learn and Earn program, wherein you can learn in-demand skills, gain hands-on experience, and earn a monthly stipend at the same time. These programs provide candidates with the exact industry exposure required. They enhance technical skills and soft skills such as creativity, communication, teamwork, time management, and more. Integrating these skill development and experiential learning courses with your formal education will not only strengthen your resume but also increase your employability.
For instance, if you are B.Tech or BE fresh graduate, enrolling in an apprenticeship program or the Learn & Earn program will help you in gaining hands-on training. You can learn workshop practices such as filing, drilling, turning, and grinding, and gain knowledge of operating CAD software like AutoCAD or SolidWorks during your practical training. Enrolling in these programs will give you a competitive advantage during your interviews.
Where to Enroll for Skill Development?
Yashaswi has been driving skill development and youth empowerment for decades. In 2010, Yashaswi introduced its flagship, “Learn & Earn”, a skill development program. The program aims to provide On-The-Job training to those from socio-economically deprived backgrounds. The program is entirely industry-funded with no monetary contribution from students, making it one of the accessible programs in the country. It supports candidates’ holistic development by enabling them to upskill and gain financial independence.
Another way to develop your skills is through an apprenticeship program. As the first recognized TPA by MSDE, Yashaswi implements apprenticeship program in various sectors like Logistics, Engineering, Beauty & Wellness, Life Sciences, Tourism & Hospitality, Media & Entertainment, and many more. Apprenticeship helps candidates gain practical knowledge, hands-on training, and exposure to industry-relevant skills, all with a monthly stipend.
Lastly, Yashaswi also offers skill development programs in Pune, tailored for upskilling and reskilling. These short-term courses enhance professionals’ industry-relevant skills. These skills strengthen candidates’ existing competencies and assist them in transitioning into new roles or industries.
In an environment where skills are crucial for one’s career, Yashaswi empowers youth and professionals to learn, develop, and lead. Whether you are beginning your professional journey or advancing your career, Yashaswi is committed to supporting you in building a future-ready path.