6 Most In Demand Digital Skills Shaping the Future of Work in India

India is on the brink of a remarkable digital revolution, with its digital economy projected to exceed $1 trillion by 2028. As the nation accelerates its growth, India is set to become a global leader in technology and innovation. However, this rapid expansion comes with a critical challenge: developing a workforce with the necessary skills to not only meet today’s digital demands but also lead and sustain this transformation in the coming years.

The Growing Importance of Digital Skills

India’s digital economy is already a significant contributor to the national GDP, and is expected to account for 20% of the economy by 2026. To reach its full potential, India must equip 30 million youth with digital skills, however a gap in digital literacy threatens to impede this growth

To bridge this gap, here are 6 most in demand digital skills that can empower India’s workforce to succeed in this growing digital environment.

1. Cybersecurity

As we go digital, keeping data safe has become a top priority. Cybersecurity is now essential for building trust in digital systems, and the numbers show why. In 2023 alone, India ranked as the third most targeted country globally, facing 79 million cyber threats. This rising threat has led to a huge demand for cybersecurity professionals, with demand up by as much as 10% in the past year. Degree apprenticeships in #cybersecurity are critical in developing the talent required to safeguard India’s digital systems, protecting national security and enabling businesses to operate securely.

2. Smart Manufacturing

The manufacturing industry is evolving fast, thanks to AI, machine learning, and IoT technologies. For India to stay competitive, there’s a growing need for professionals who understand automation, data analysis, and cybersecurity within manufacturing. Government programs like NAPS, PMKVY, and DDU-GKY are helping meet this demand by providing training and upskilling opportunities, especially in tier-II cities. Through degree apprenticeships in smart manufacturing, workers gain hands-on skills that help them keep up with industry changes and drive India’s manufacturing forward

3. Cloud Architecture

Cloud technology has become the backbone of modern businesses, providing flexibility, scalability, and cost-efficiency. As companies rely more on the cloud to streamline operations, there’s a need for professionals skilled in cloud architecture, cloud security, and DevOps. With apprenticeships programs, individuals can get practical training that prepares them to build and manage digital infrastructure. These skills help businesses operate smoothly, scale effectively, and innovate faster, creating a strong digital foundation that supports India’s growth.?

4. Supply Chain Management: Optimizing Operations in a Digital-First World

In today’s digital economy, supply chains are more connected—and more complex—than ever. Skills in supply chain management, like data-driven decision-making and predictive analytics, are crucial for keeping goods moving efficiently and minimizing disruptions. By learning skills in automation, real-time data management, and AI, supply chain professionals can enhance operations and make proactive decisions. Apprenticeships and upskilling programs ensure that supply chain managers are ready to navigate the logistics challenges of a global market, which is essential to keeping businesses running smoothly.

5. Digital Marketing

In India, where over 82% of consumers actively shop and research online, digital marketing skills have become indispensable for businesses navigating the flourishing digital economy. With the Digital India initiative boosting internet penetration and fueling private sector growth, there is a surging demand for expertise in SEO, content creation, social media strategy, and data analytics. These capabilities are critical for businesses to connect with and engage India's vast, diverse online audience, enhancing brand visibility and driving sales. Degree apprenticeships and focused upskilling programs in digital marketing can play a vital role in building a workforce equipped to excel in this rapidly growing online marketplace.

6. Data Science and Analytics: Turning Data into Actionable Insights

Data is now the driving force behind decision-making, and the demand for data science skills is growing rapidly. However, as per the National Economic Survey, the overall employability rate for Indian youth remains lower, with only 51.25% considered employable, highlighting the need for targeted efforts to develop skilled data analysts and scientists capable of turning raw data into actionable insights.

Degree apprenticeships in data science can help meet this demand by providing learners with hands-on experience in areas like data mining, statistical analysis, and machine learning. These programs equip individuals to support businesses in making smarter, data-driven decisions, improving customer experiences, and staying ahead of the competition. Empowering India’s

Through targeted initiatives like #degreeapprenticeships, India can close the skills gap, providing young professionals with the practical, hands-on experience they need to excel in these critical fields. By investing in these programs, we are not only preparing the workforce for the challenges ahead but also ensuring that India remains competitive and continues to innovate on the world stage. The future of India’s digital economy relies on the strength of its workforce, and by promoting these essential skills, we can ensure the nation’s leadership in the digital age for generations to come.

The six key skills highlighted in this article were shared by Sumit Kumar, our Chief Strategy Officer, in an insightful feature published in India Today.

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