The study highlights the potential for creating a multitude of job opportunities in various sectors, such as renewable energy, waste management, electric vehicles, green construction, and sustainable textiles, collectively known as green jobs. 

According to Sattva Consulting, a sustainable solutions company, India anticipates the creation of 35 million green jobs by 2047. These green jobs encompass a wide range of sectors, both traditional and emerging, all dedicated to the restoration and preservation of the environment. Industries such as renewable energy, waste management, electric vehicles, green construction, and sustainable textiles will contribute to this significant employment boost.

In the green economy, the renewable energy sector is poised to be a major source of employment. Solar energy alone is projected to provide job opportunities for approximately 3.26 million individuals by 2050. Following closely behind is the wind energy sector, which is expected to support around 0.18 million jobs by 2030. Additionally, the bioenergy and green hydrogen sectors could employ 0.27 million and 0.6 million workers, respectively, by 2030.

Focus on urban areas

The report emphasizes that India's green economy will predominantly offer employment opportunities in urban and peri-urban areas, which are projected to accommodate 60% of the nation's population by 2050. Rapid urban development is expected to result in an annual 4% rise in waste generation, presenting a significant need for waste management and creating the potential for employing millions of individuals in the next decade. Specifically, the 'lucrative' sectors of e-waste and wastewater management are anticipated to offer promising job prospects.

India's green growth potential

With the immense potential for green growth, India is poised to become a global frontrunner and unlock a staggering $1 trillion in value by 2030. The country witnessed a remarkable surge of 125 per cent in renewable energy investments, reaching $14.5 billion in the previous fiscal year. Furthermore, the momentum for green transitions is expected to receive a significant boost from companies operating in conventional sectors, as 138 firms have committed to achieving net-zero emissions targets by 2050.

Rise in EV demand 

India's ambitious drive towards electric vehicles (EVs) is anticipated to generate substantial employment opportunities. By 2030, it is projected to create 10 million direct jobs and an additional 50 million indirect jobs. This transition will not only provide avenues for a new workforce but also offer prospects for individuals currently engaged in the internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicle sector. Additionally, the shift towards sustainable textiles and construction is expected to impact 45 million and 11 million jobs, respectively.

Challenges in the transition to green growth

Considerable skill development is needed to kickstart green growth, particularly for workers in traditional sectors. The report emphasizes the nascent state of the ecosystem supporting skill development and identifies barriers like insufficient policies, funding gaps, inadequate infrastructure, exclusion of vulnerable groups, and limited collaboration among key actors.