Answer

Human Resource Development (HRD) involves systematically nurturing talents and skills to drive national growth. Despite rapid economic progress placing India among the top five in GDP growth, challenges persist, as reflected in its low HDI ranking of 134 out of 193 countries.

Inadequate attention paid to Human Resource Development in India

• Education Quality: The ASER report highlights poor learning outcomes, inadequate infrastructure, and weak comprehension skills in government schools.
  Example: Azim Premji Foundation found that 60% of Indian schoolchildren lack access to online learning.
• Skill Mismatch: About 30% of Indian graduates are unemployable due to a lack of industry-relevant skills.
• Healthcare Infrastructure: The National Family Health Survey reveals critical gaps, especially in rural areas, necessitating stronger primary healthcare systems.
• Nutrition: Despite POSHAN Abhiyan, malnutrition persists, requiring better implementation and outreach.
  Example: India ranked 105th out of 127 countries in the 2024 Global Hunger Index.
• Digital Divide: COVID-19 exposed disparities, with many students from weaker backgrounds lacking digital access.

Measures to Address the Inadequacy

• Industry-Academia Collaboration: Bridging the gap between theoretical knowledge and industry needs.
  Example: IIT Madras collaborates with industries to enhance employability.
• Continuous Professional Development: Encouraging lifelong learning for teachers to adapt to evolving education systems.
• Telemedicine: Utilizing technology to improve healthcare accessibility.
  Example: Kerala successfully implemented telemedicine during COVID-19.
• Mobile Education Units: Bridging the digital divide and promoting digital literacy.
  Example: Maharashtra’s digital bus project provides mobile learning resources.
• Mentorship Programs: Encouraging gender equality in academics and professions.
  Example: WISE (Women in Science and Engineering) programs support women’s career growth.
• Incubation Centres: Promoting innovation and research in educational institutions.
  Example: IIT Bombay’s incubation centres foster startups and technological advancements.
• Skill Festivals: Promoting vocational training through interactive platforms.

To build a dynamic workforce, India must focus on grassroots education reforms, structured skill development, and a supportive ecosystem for research and innovation. Strengthening industry-academia collaboration and continuous teacher training will further enhance human resource development.