Introduction

The Southern India Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SICCI) recently hosted a groundbreaking event, “What India Needs – SICCI’s Election Manifesto Recommendations,” aimed at shaping political parties’ manifestos for the upcoming Indian general election in 2024. I had the privilege of representing SICCI’s Employability Committee, to present the manifesto recommendations on how to enhance the employability of our students and employment opportunities in the country. This marked the first time SICCI organised an event to provide manifesto recommendations for a national election, showcasing commitment to fostering positive change in India.

Key Recommendations from Eminent Speakers

Distinguished speakers such as Mr. T.S Krishnamurthy, the former Chief Election Commissioner,  Mr. M.K Narayanan, former National Security Advisor and Mr. Ampa Palaniappan Vice President of SICCI shared their insights during the event.

Mr. Krishnamurthy mentioned that the political parties are the weaker links in our democracy, highlighting the vulnerabilities of the political parties. He emphasized the need to eliminate the culture of offering freebies to influence voters. He also stressed the dangers of fund flow through electoral bonds and proposed the introduction of flat taxes for salaried classes to reduce administrative burdens.

Mr M.K Narayanan indicated the significance of Supply Chain Management, transport, and infrastructure for a country’s growth. He suggested a shift from purchasing weapons abroad to developing indigenous technology promoting self-reliance.

The importance of a manifesto in an election and its history was highlighted by Mr Palaniappan.

SICCI Committee Recommendations

Each SICCI committee, including Employability, Health Care, Economic Affairs, Arbitration, Direct Taxes, Supply Chain Management, Human Resources, and Tourism, was tasked with presenting manifesto recommendations.

The Employability Committee focused on key challenges and innovative recommendations to foster incremental and disruptive growth in employability. I would like to thank all the members of the Employability Committee for their enthusiasm in brainstorming and coming up with various diverse ideas and suggestions.

Challenges identified include the absence of a systematic approach to address underrepresented communities in the workforce, ineffective skill development programs, misalignment of college syllabi with industrial standards, and inadequate digital adoption in government processes and industries.

Manifesto Recommendations for Incremental Growth

  1. Ensure well-trained and certified professors and teachers to improve teaching quality. Subject knowledge and teaching skills should be the priority over qualifications.
  2. Recognize and promote the engagement of industry professionals in educational institutions. Professors of practice should be encouraged across the country.
  3. Align college syllabi with industrial standards and foster collaboration between institutions and industries.
  4. Include vocational courses as a part of higher secondary education in all government and private schools.
  5. Include internships as a part of the curriculum in all courses across all institutions.
  6. Corporates to allocate 35% of CSR funds to skill development initiatives.
  7. Emphasize English language proficiency for global communication.

Manifesto Recommendations for Disruptive Growth

  1. Prioritize investments in technological infrastructure by the Government and promote digital literacy.
  2. Incentivize organizations to recruit a minimum percentage of interns.
  3. Establish startup incubators in all government and private colleges across all courses.

Conclusion

The manifesto recommendations presented by the SICCI Employability Committee are aimed at addressing the critical challenges hindering employability in India. By focusing on both incremental and disruptive growth strategies, these proposals aim to create a more inclusive, skilled, and globally competitive workforce. As we approach the 2024 elections, it becomes crucial for political parties to consider these recommendations for a brighter future for India.

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