PREPARING INDIA'S WORKFORCE FOR 5G AND THE LEAP TO 6G ERA

India's GDP powerhouse telecom sector faces a 2.5 M talent shortfall. Rapid 5G and upcoming 6G require heavy investments in upskilling to stay ahead

- LT GEN DR SP KOCHHAR

In the last decade, India has established itself as a hub of technological innovation, spearheading the digital revolution globally. With the fastest 5G rollout in the world and the launch of 6G technologies aimed at 2030, there is a subsequent growth in the demand for a skilled labour force in the country.

India's telecom industry is a vital engine of the nation's economy, powering roughly 6.5% of the country's GDP. It ranks among the top sectors for job creation, making it a significant driver of employment. However, the industry is undergoing a dynamic transformation fuelled by the arrival of 5G-centric, next-generation technologies like data science, Artificial Intelligence (Al), Internet of Things (IoT), Blockchain, Robotics and Cloud Computing. These advancements generate a high demand for a well-skilled workforce equipped to handle these cutting-edge developments.

OPPORTUNITIES FOR TALENT GROWTH IN THE 5G ERA

A recent report by TeamLease highlights an important opportunity for the telecom sector in India: the need for a skilled workforce. The telecom industry is poised to address a shortfall of 2.5 million skilled workers, and this demand is expected to grow significantly by 2030. This trend coincides with a moderated pace of workforce growth in FY23-24 compared to the previous year.

This scenario underscores a pivotal point: as a key driver of India's economic growth, the telecom industry has a unique chance to attract and develop talent. The rapid technological advancements in 5G demand a highly trained workforce essential for efficient network operations. Mastering 5G will pave the way for 6G innovation, enabling India to unlock the full potential of next-generation technologies. By investing in skill development now, the industry can ensure sustained growth and technological leadership in the future.

NURTURING TELECOM TALENT FOR ECONOMIC GROWTH