GUWAHATI: India ranked 13th globally in the QS World Future Skills Index 2027, emerging as the highest-ranked country in South Asia and among lower-middle-income economies, as the report highlighted the country’s economic readiness for an artificial intelligence-driven future while warning of widening skill gaps.
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Published by QS Quacquarelli Symonds, the index evaluates countries on their preparedness for future workforce demands through indicators linked to economic transformation, education systems and labour market readiness.
India recorded an overall score of 89.4 out of 100 and achieved a perfect score of 100 in the Economic Capacity indicator, the highest among all countries assessed. India’s performance was supported by its strong Economic Capacity score and readiness for technology-driven economic transformation.
Despite the strong overall showing, the report identified challenges in talent readiness. India ranked 73rd in the Human Capital indicator, pointing to difficulties in ensuring graduates possess skills aligned with rapidly evolving industry requirements.
According to the report, India has the world’s largest tertiary-educated population and the largest information technology services workforce, employing around 5.8 million professionals. However, demand for expertise in artificial intelligence, digital technologies and sustainability-related sectors is increasing faster than many education systems are adapting.
The report estimated that successful adoption of artificial intelligence could add nearly USD 500 billion in economic value to India by 2030. At the same time, it cautioned that sectors employing large numbers of workers, including business process outsourcing and call centres may face disruption as automation expands.
The report noted that India’s next phase of growth will depend not only on adopting AI technologies but also on preparing workers to use them effectively and adapt to changing employment demands.
Among its recommendations, QS called for faster and more consistent implementation of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, stronger international education partnerships and greater emphasis on jobs where artificial intelligence enhances human productivity rather than replacing it.
India’s long-term competitiveness will depend on how effectively its education and workforce systems respond to evolving skill requirements.