Minister of State (MoS) for Labour and Employment Shobha Karandlaje informed the Parliament that India has generated 16.83 crore new jobs over the past six financial years, spanning from 2017-18 to 2023-24.

The minister revealed that total employment in the country increased by 35 percent during this period, rising from 47.5 crore in 2017-18 to 64.33 crore as of March 2024. This data is derived from the latest KLEMS (Capital, Labour, Energy, Materials, and Services) data provided by the Reserve Bank of India, which tracks employment trends nationwide.

Karandlaje highlighted that the manufacturing sector, encompassing both formal and informal entities, saw a notable rise of 85 lakh job opportunities between 2017-18 and 2022-23.

Addressing concerns about child labour, the minister outlined the government's comprehensive strategy to combat the issue. This includes legislative measures, a rehabilitation strategy, the right to free education, and broader socio-economic development efforts. The Centre has also developed a model State Action Plan to guide state governments in their efforts to eradicate child labour.

The minister's statements reflect the government's focus on job creation and its commitment to addressing child labour through a multifaceted approach.