Stigma reason behind shortage of 'skilled' trade workers in India: Survey

economictimes.indiatimes.com:

3M, the global firm found that 80 per cent of Indian respondents believe that shortage of 'skilled' trade workers in the country could have a negative economic impact, and lead to decline in overall quality of life and neglected public infrastructure. Skilled trade workers include electricians, carpenters, plumbers, steamfitters, pipefitters, welders, heavy equipment operators and painters. The State of Science Index-2023, released by the American multinational, it also found that 85 per cent of respondents said shortage of skilled trade workers was on account of parents discouraging children from pursuing opportunities in the sector. «Eighty per cent believe there is a negative stigma around being a skilled trade worker,» the SOSI-2023 said referring to the findings of the survey in India. This survey was conducted in 17-countries during September to December last year among 1,000 general population consumers in each country. It explored the future of science and captures sentiment related to STEM equity, skilled trades, sustainability, health and future innovation. «Eighty per cent of the respondents say that if the country cannot find a solution to this shortage soon, there could be consequences such as negative economic impact, decline in overall quality of life, safety risks, neglected public infrastructure and supply chain challenges,» it said.

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91 per cent of respondents in India also believed that the science has a critical role in improving the lives of the world's most vulnerable populations and 92 per cent want to hear what scientists think about societal issues. It found that 86 per cent of Indians surveyed believe positive