India must create 8–10 million jobs annually: PM’s Principal Secretary P K Mishra

Addressing students at the 9th convocation of IIM Sambalpur, he said this demand for employment is being tackled through government initiatives like Digital India and Skill India, Indian Express reported.

“There is a need to create 8 to 10 million jobs annually. The Central government has therefore launched initiatives like Digital India and Skill India to meet this goal. You need technical knowledge along with skills,” Mishra told the graduating class, reported the Indian Express.

While affirming India’s strong position on the global stage, Mishra cautioned that the world is dealing with complex and shifting dynamics.

He cited disruptions in global supply chains, protectionist measures, evolving trade patterns and intensified geopolitical tensions as major challenges.

“Today, India holds a strong global position, with a growing economy, a young population and strategic partnerships. The country’s increasing influence will help achieve the goal of Viksit Bharat, as envisioned by the Prime Minister,” he said, according to the Indian Express.

Delivering his address on the theme ‘Opportunities and Challenges in the Current Geopolitical and Economic Context’, Mishra pointed to the rapid technological advancements and the strengthening of India’s digital backbone.

“We are grappling with tectonic shifts in geopolitical alignments while simultaneously witnessing technological breakthroughs at an unprecedented pace. Climate and sustainability are central to this conversation. Disruptions in global supply chains, protectionist policies, heightened geopolitical tensions and changing global trade patterns are contributing to this complexity,” he said, according to the report.

He also mentioned that India now has 8,000 million internet users.

Mishra urged students to take charge of their own futures and continue building on the achievements they’ve made so far.

“You must take the initiative to shape your own future and focus on achieving many more milestones, building upon the solid foundation you have established today,” he said, the report added.

He also praised the gender diversity at IIM Sambalpur, noting that 60 percent of its MBA students are women, and encouraged the institute to raise that figure to 80 percent.