A Broader Lens on Skilling: My Longstanding Call for Better Data

The Enduring Quest for Comprehensive Skills Data

I recently read about the government's plans for a "Broader Labour Survey on cards to capture more data on skilling" The Economic Times. This news struck a chord with me, as it echoes concerns and suggestions I've been voicing for years about the critical need for accurate, in-depth labour market data, especially concerning skills.

The Challenge of Data Divergence

Back in May 2018, in my blog titled "Unemployment / JobsData / EPFO / DigitalIndia," I pointed out the significant divergence in job data from various sources. I likened it to having multiple clocks in a room, all showing slightly different times, leaving one unsure which to trust. I predicted then that this controversy over accurate jobs data would continue for years. Today, while the conversation has evolved, the underlying challenge of comprehensive data remains.

I also highlighted that countries like China were obsessed with collecting granular data to drive their economic policies and workforce development strategies, demonstrating a foresight in leveraging data for national progress.

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Regards,
[Hemen Parekh] Any questions? Feel free to ask my Virtual Avatar at hemenparekh.ai