"India's Economic Paradox: Growth Without Jobs" by Santosh Mehrotra

Mehrotra, an economist and visiting professor at the University of Bath, UK, discussed the deep employment crisis facing India despite its rapid economic growth. He explained that while India has become the world’s fastest-growing large economy, it has not been able to create enough non-farm jobs for its growing youth population. Millions enter the labor market each year, yet youth unemployment remains high, twice the level it was a decade ago.

In his talk, Mehrotra explored the reasons behind this paradox. He pointed to structural changes in the Indian economy and the weakening link between economic growth and job creation. He also highlighted the importance of policy changes that can help address the employment challenges, including the need to raise wages and invest in education, health and social protection. The lecture also touched on broader themes such as women’s employment, inequality and the risk of India missing its demographic opportunity if more jobs are not created soon.

The event brought together students and faculty interested in understanding how development strategies can be made more inclusive and equitable, not only in India but in other fast-growing economies around the world.

Mehrotra visited AUC as part of a trip for intellectual exchange and to deliver this lecture and others in collaboration with the Pathways project.