Independence Day 2024: PM Modi highlights 'Green Jobs' - What are they and why they matter

PM Modi address in 10 charts

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday emphasised the importance of green jobs in India's efforts to combat climate change, stating that the focus is now on green growth and green jobs.

Addressing the nation from the ramparts of the Red Fort on the 78th Independence Day, the prime minister stressed on creating sustainable employment opportunities.

"The focus of the country is now on green growth and green jobs, which will generate employment opportunities while contributing to environmental protection," he said.

PM stressed on India's commitment to becoming a global leader in green hydrogen production and creating sustainable employment opportunities in environmental conservation and renewable energy sectors.

What are Green Jobs?

According to the International Labour Organziation (ILO), green jobs are defined as those which prioritise environmental sustainability. Those involved in the sector work towards achieving net-zero emissions, be they in traditional sectors such as manufacturing and construction, or in new, emerging green sectors such as renewable energy and energy efficiency.

As outlined by the International Labour Organization (ILO), this category of employment offers several key benefits:

- Enhancing the efficient use of energy and raw materials.

- Curbing the emission of greenhouse gases.

- Reducing waste and limits contamination.

- Safeguarding and rejuvenating ecosystems.

The circular economy, which focuses on practices like reusing, repairing, and recycling, along with promoting sustainable manufacturing and consumption, is set to generate green jobs.

The report titled ‘Gearing Up the Workforce for a Green Economy,’ published by the Skill Council for Green Jobs (SCGJ) and Sattva Consulting, with support from JP Morgan, projects that India could create 35 million green jobs by 2047.