India is strategically positioned to harness the benefits of Industry 4.0, marking a significant leap in the realm of industry and innovation, declared Union Minister for Education and Skill Development & Entrepreneurship, Dharmendra Pradhan, during the Vibrant Gujarat Summit. Speaking at the session on "Building Workforces for the Future: Development of Skills for Industry 4.0," Pradhan underscored India's favorable conditions, emphasizing the crucial factors contributing to the "India moment" — demography, demand, and a decisive government.

Highlighting India's youth dividend, Pradhan stressed that while the global population is aging rapidly, India is enriched by its young population. Experts predict that over the next 25-30 years, India will lead in terms of the working-age population. To achieve the vision of 'Viksit Bharat' by 2047, Pradhan urged collective contributions, particularly from the youth. Under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the Gujarat development model has become a guiding force for skilling efforts across states.

Pradhan applauded the Gujarat model for its inclusive, development-oriented, and participative approach, particularly emphasizing its strength in "women-led development." He also commended the state's efforts in implementing the National Education Policy 2020 (NEP), emphasizing the need for greater synergy between education and skills.

Discussing the importance of the NEP, Pradhan highlighted ongoing efforts to align education and skills to make India's youth future-ready. He emphasized the role of the education and skill ecosystem in empowering the country's youth and contributing to a 'Viksit Bharat' by 2047.

Pradhan's address also acknowledged the global expectation from India to provide low-cost, quality, sustainable, and scalable solutions to global challenges. The Vibrant Gujarat Summit, celebrating "20 Years of Vibrant Gujarat as the Summit of Success," serves as a testament to the state's continued commitment to progress and development with the theme 'Gateway to the Future.'

The summit, held from January 10 to 12, positions Gujarat as a crucial player in India's journey toward a digitally advanced and skilled workforce, aligning with the demands of Industry 4.0.