The current scenario paints a clear picture: the allocation for higher education dipped slightly in the interim budget, while Skill India Mission 4.0, a dedicated programme for skilling youth, deserves a higher allocation. This imbalance highlights a disconnect – we are training youth, but not necessarily aligning those skills with industry needs. The National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 emphasises a holistic approach, and HEIs are well-positioned to deliver on this vision. By incorporating vocational training programs alongside traditional academics, graduates can emerge job-ready, equipped with not just theoretical knowledge but also the practical skills employers seek.
