India expected to create 7.29 million green jobs by FY28, 35 million by 2047, claims talent solutions firm

By A Representative  

India’s green economy is projected to generate approximately 7.29 million new jobs by the financial year 2027–28 and around 35 million by 2047, according to a report by talent solutions firm NLB Services. The estimates align with the growing emphasis on sustainability-led economic growth and green transformation initiatives across sectors.

The report highlights that India’s green economy is on track to reach a valuation of $1 trillion by 2030 and $15 trillion by 2070. As the sector scales up investment in green technologies and clean energy deployment, the need for a skilled workforce is also increasing. The anticipated employment growth surpasses earlier projections made in 2024, which suggested a 15–20% annual rise in demand for green jobs over the next decade.

To address skill gaps, companies are reportedly shifting their hiring strategies, placing greater emphasis on practical competencies and skill-based recruitment. This includes partnerships with academic institutions to train young professionals in sustainability-focused disciplines, as well as initiatives to support re-skilling and inclusive hiring.

The majority of new job opportunities are expected to arise in sectors such as renewable energy, waste management, electric mobility, sustainable textiles, and green construction. While metropolitan areas like Mumbai, Bengaluru, and Delhi remain key hubs for green employment, the report notes significant growth in Tier II and III cities, including Jaipur, Indore, Visakhapatnam, Ahmedabad, Coimbatore, Bhubaneswar, and Chandigarh. These locations are projected to account for 35–40% of the green jobs by FY28, driven by growth in sectors like sustainable agriculture, logistics, and warehousing.

Demand is also increasing for roles in emerging areas such as ESG analytics, green technology, and climate data analysis. Hybrid profiles that combine environmental expertise with digital skills are gaining traction. The integration of technologies such as artificial intelligence, precision farming, blockchain, smart irrigation, and Geographic Information Systems (GIS) is contributing to new job creation and shifting skill requirements in the sector.

The report notes that green sector salaries have increased by an average of 20.3% over the past 1–2 years. Salary levels in Tier I cities are expected to remain up to 50% higher than in Tier II locations, reflecting regional cost-of-living differences.

Despite the positive employment outlook, the report also acknowledges ongoing challenges related to gender disparity. Women currently represent only 11–12% of the green workforce, with barriers such as limited access to technical education, cultural constraints, and workplace safety concerns cited as key factors. However, companies are increasingly implementing inclusive hiring policies and targeted skill development programs aimed at improving gender balance. Projections suggest a potential 12–15% improvement in gender parity over the next five to six years.

Sachin Alug, CEO of NLB Services, commented, “In the past 4–5 years, we’ve seen green jobs evolve from niche roles to mainstream opportunities across renewable energy, EVs, and sustainable infrastructure. What’s changed pragmatically is the skillsets. Today’s green workforce needs both sustainability know-how and digital fluency, and the increased integration of AI, IoT, blockchain, GIS, and data-driven tools are laying the foundation for progressive, new-age green careers.”

The findings are based on NLB Services’ analysis of macroeconomic trends, industry demand, and workforce dynamics in the green sector.