India has emerged as the second most prepared job market globally for future in-demand skills, trailing only the United States, according to the QS World Future Skills Index 2025. The index highlights India’s strong potential in critical sectors such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), digital, and green industries.
The inaugural Future Skills Index, released by London-based Quacquarelli Symonds (QS), evaluates countries on their readiness to meet evolving job market demands. The index assesses four main areas: skills fit, academic readiness, future of work, economic transformation
India ranks 25th overall across all indicators, earning recognition as a “future skills contender.” Notably, the country excels in the “Future of Work” category, securing the second-highest global score (99.1), just behind the United States.
India’s Strengths
India’s performance in the Future of Work indicator underscores its readiness to meet emerging job market demands. Alongside Mexico, India is identified as the most prepared nation to recruit for digital roles.
“India’s outstanding GDP growth, youthful population, and burgeoning start-up culture position the country as a global leader in future-ready skills,” said Matteo Quacquarelli, QS Vice President of Strategy and Analytics.
Challenges in Higher Education and Industry Integration
While India shines in certain areas, the report highlights opportunities for improvement. These include:
- Enhancing Industry Collaboration: Bridging the gap between higher education institutions and industry needs.
- Equipping Graduates with In-Demand Skills: Expanding focus on digital, AI, and green sectors to align with employer demands.
- Future-Oriented Innovation and Sustainability: India scores low on this metric, indicating a need to prioritize sustainable practices and forward-looking solutions.
Population Advantage: A Demographic Edge
India’s demographic advantage plays a pivotal role in its readiness for future skills. Unlike nations grappling with ageing populations, India’s youthful demographic offers unique opportunities for growth and development.
“India’s young workforce and dynamic start-up ecosystem make it uniquely poised to lead in emerging sectors,” said Ashwin Fernandes, QS Executive Director – AMESA.
Unlocking India’s Full Potential
To maximise its potential, the report calls for:
- Deeper Integration of Education and Industry: Collaboration to ensure graduates are job-ready.
- Fostering Innovation: Strengthening research and development capabilities.
- Expanding Access to Education: Ensuring equitable access to higher education across diverse regions.
India’s ranking in the QS World Future Skills Index highlights its growing capability to prepare a future-ready workforce. While challenges remain in innovation and sustainability, the nation’s dynamic economy, robust educational institutions, and demographic advantage make it a formidable contender in the global job market.
As India continues to strengthen its position, it stands poised to lead the world in digital, AI, and green sectors, reinforcing its status as a key player in shaping the future of work.
