MSDE, Japan discuss skilling, language training and employment pathways for Indian youth
The Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE) organised the India - Japan stakeholder consultation on skill development in New Delhi. This consultation will strengthen the collaboration between the two countries on skilling and workforce mobility.
The discussions aimed to advance the action plan for India-Japan human resource exchange and cooperation, announced at the 15th India-Japan annual summit in 2025. The meeting had officials from the ministry of external affairs, state governments and the Japanese government, along with industry representatives, recruitment agencies, training partners and other stakeholders.
Addressing the consultation, Jayant Chaudhary, minister of state (I/C) for skill development and entrepreneurship and minister of state for education, government of India, said, “India’s young people must be enabled to access global opportunities with the right skills, confidence and preparation, adding that the focus is not only on creating overseas employment pathways but on ensuring that every candidate is equipped with relevant technical skills, language ability and workplace understanding.”
Speaking at the event, H E Ono Keiichi, Japan’s ambassador to India, said Japan’s need for skilled workers matches India’s young talent pool. He stressed the need for skills and Japanese-language training, reliable job opportunities, and stronger cooperation among governments, industry, and training institutions.
Roadmap ahead
The consultation covered three major areas. The first examined pathways under the echnical Intern Training Programme (TITP), Specified Skilled Worker (SSW) and the upcoming Employment for Skill Development Programme (ESDP). The participants discussed implementation mechanisms, areas of convergence and preparations for ESDP.
The second session focused on the action plan for human resource exchange, including the expansion of Japanese language training, sector-specific courses, assessment facilities and coordination between central and state governments, training institutions and industry.
The third session facilitated direct interaction between Japanese employers and recruitment companies and Indian stakeholders. Discussions covered occupational competencies, Japanese language requirements, workplace preparedness and candidate support, with emphasis on matching training programmes with industry needs.
A key outcome was the proposed development of a roadmap for skilling Indian candidates for Japanese employment. The framework is expected to clarify the ESDP pathway and its links with existing programmes such as TITP and SSW. It will also cover candidate mobilisation, technical training, language and cultural preparation, assessments, employer engagement and pre-departure support.
The consultation identified several priorities, including expanding Japanese language programmes, improving assessment infrastructure, increasing awareness of verified employment pathways and strengthening coordination among states, sending organisations, training institutions and employers.
The proposed roadmap will outline short, medium and long-term measures, assign responsibilities to relevant ministries, state governments, agencies, training institutions and industry partners, and establish measurable targets and review mechanisms.