During a July protest over leaked NEET exam papers, the government saw a wave of student anger that ultimately led to the resignation of former Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan. In the wake of these events, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman spoke to The Indian Express about the deeper issue of India’s education system.
She said universities and colleges produce graduates who hold degrees but lack the skills needed for jobs. The minister noted that students are not adequately prepared to enter the workforce or start their own businesses.
Sitharaman compared India to developed countries, where students choose subjects they enjoy and learn how those skills apply in real work settings. In those systems, the curriculum is closely linked to industry demands.
She added that the private sector must create high‑quality jobs, but companies will invest only when they see clear incentives. The government can mainly offer nudges rather than force investment.
According to her, market forces decide where funding from the private sector and the government goes, which in turn creates demand for specific jobs. The Centre’s job is to create opportunities and identify talent that fits those emerging roles.
The minister’s remarks underline the need for reforms that align higher education with the job market and encourage collaboration between the state and industry. Without such changes, India’s youth may continue to face unemployment and underemployment.