Shram Shakti Niti: Draft National Labour Policy Explained
Why in the news
The Labour Ministry published a draft labour policy named Shram Shakti Niti, meant to modernise the labour framework and create a fair, inclusive, future-ready jobs ecosystem.
Key facts
- Vision: every worker, whether formal, informal or gig-based, gets dignity, protection and opportunity.
- Ministry’s role: shift from regulator to facilitator of employment, using digital tools and AI to link workers, employers and training institutions.
- Digital core: the National Career Service (NCS) to be expanded into a Digital Public Infrastructure for Employment, cutting information asymmetry and improving job matching.
AI and jobs: World Bank South Asia Development Update, October 2025
| Indicator | Finding |
|---|---|
| Jobs highly exposed to automation in South Asia | 7% |
| Jobs where AI and humans complement each other | About 15% |
| Wage premium for AI-related roles | 30% over other white-collar posts |
| Trend in Indian firms | Move from BPO towards KPO, raising skill needs but trimming entry-level openings |
Skills and education proposals
- Targeted skilling and reskilling, especially in semi-urban and rural areas.
- AI-enabled job matching and digital credentialing.
- Entrepreneurship support for women and youth.
- AI taught in CBSE from Class III; AI and data science in undergraduate courses.
Social security and MSMEs
- Universal and portable social security.
- Easier compliance for micro, small and medium enterprises.
- Support for green and technology-led transitions in employment.
Exam angle
- Draft policy: Shram Shakti Niti; ministry: Labour and Employment.
- Platform to be upgraded: NCS.
- Figures: 7%, 15%, 30% from the World Bank update.