India needs to create 8-10 million jobs annually: PM’s Principal Secretary P K Mishra

“There is a need to create 8 to 10 million jobs annually. The Central government has therefore launched initiatives like Digital India and Skill India to meet this goal. You need technical knowledge along with skills,” he said.

“Today, India holds a strong global position, with a growing economy, a young population and strategic partnerships. The country’s increasing influence will help achieve the goal of Viksit Bharat, as envisioned by the Prime Minister,” Mishra said.

Speaking on the theme of ‘Opportunities and Challenges in the Current Geopolitical and Economic Context’, Mishra said India’s digital infrastructure is getting stronger by the day and there are 8,000 million internet users in the country.

“We are grappling with tectonic shifts in geopolitical alignments while simultaneously witnessing technological breakthroughs at an unprecedented pace. Climate and sustainability are central to this conversation. Disruptions in global supply chains, protectionist policies, heightened geopolitical tensions and changing global trade patterns are contributing to this complexity,” he told the students.

“You must take the initiative to shape your own future and focus on achieving many more milestones, building upon the solid foundation you have established today,” he said.

Mishra also noted IIM Sambalpur’s gender ratio — where women make up 60 per cent of MBA students — and encouraged the institute to aim for 80 per cent.