The Transformative Journey of Careers in India

The evolution of careers in India has undergone a profound transformation, influenced by societal shifts, technological advancements, and global changes. Examining this journey from the 1990s to the 2020s, we witness a paradigm shift from conventional norms and the rise of diverse career paths, shaped not only by academic scores but also by the introduction of new education boards and the global impact of COVID-19. Let’s look at how the process of picking jobs has transformed from the 1990s to the 2020s, moving away from the usual paths to more varied and unexpected choices.

The 1990s: Tradition, Academics, and Career Choices

In the 1990s, people usually picked jobs like engineering or medicine because that’s what society expected and thought was good. Getting those jobs depended a lot on doing well in school, especially in tests. If you did great in tests, you were seen as successful, and that often led to more “normal” jobs.

Back then, everyone thought certain jobs were better, like being a doctor or engineer. Doing well in tests was really important for getting those jobs. The education system was mostly controlled by the state, and there were only a few jobs that were considered good. People liked these jobs because they also had good pension plans. So, in the 1990s, following the usual path and doing what society thought was right was a big deal in choosing careers.

The 2000s: Expanding Horizons with New Education Boards

In the 2000s, jobs and how companies hired people changed a lot. The IT industry and global connections brought in new job options. Companies didn’t just care about good grades anymore; they started looking at other things like hobbies and what you do outside of school.

During this time, different jobs became popular, like digital marketing and data science. Companies wanted more than just good grades; they wanted to see if you had other skills and talents from outside school.

In education, new international boards like IGCSE and IB came in, giving students a global perspective. It made people think about careers beyond the usual ones. Companies started considering candidates from different educational backgrounds, not just looking at grades. So, the 2000s were a time when jobs and education started to focus on more than just what you learn in school.

The 2010s: Technological Revolutions and a Changing Selection Paradigm

In the 2010s, technology changed how people found jobs. Small and new companies, called startups, became more popular. Companies started using online tests and video interviews to pick people, focusing on skills instead of just grades. They wanted to see if a person could adapt, be creative, and handle changes in the job.

During this time, more people choose non-traditional jobs like freelancing or working in special industries, not the usual 9-to-5. This made companies change how they picked people to see if they could handle these different kinds of jobs. The 2010s marked a shift where technology and unique job choices influenced how companies hired individuals.

The COVID-19 Impact: Accelerating Change and Remote Work Norms

In the 2020s, getting good grades is still important, but now companies look at more than just school learning. They want to know if you have practical skills and experience. When choosing people for jobs, companies consider everything – internships, projects you’ve done, and how well you work with others.

Jobs have become more flexible, letting people work from anywhere. So, when companies pick people for jobs, they want to see how well you can work in a virtual (online) environment.

Jobs have become more flexible, letting people work from anywhere. So, when companies pick people for jobs, they want to see how well you can work in a virtual (online) environment.

Globalization and Career Choices: Expanding Vistas

Globalization played a pivotal role in reshaping career choices. The rise of international collaborations and the interconnectedness of economies expanded career options for individuals willing to embrace a globalized workforce. The emphasis shifted from local to global perspectives, and companies sought individuals with the adaptability to thrive in diverse work environments.

The Changing Role of Entrance Exams: Beyond Traditional Benchmarks

Entrance exams, once the primary gatekeepers for various careers, underwent a transformation. While they still held significance, employers began to value practical skills and experiences gained through internships, projects, and real-world applications. The emphasis shifted from just academic prowess to a more comprehensive evaluation of a candidate’s abilities.

In conclusion, the evolution of careers in India has been marked by a departure from traditional norms towards a more diverse and globally influenced landscape. The introduction of new education boards, the impact of COVID-19, and the forces of globalization have collectively reshaped career trajectories. As we stand on the cusp of a new era, the future of careers in India holds promise, with individuals navigating an expansive terrain of opportunities shaped by a changing world

Must read:

https://ourworldindata.org/urbanization
https://www.livemint.com/news/india/a-short-history-of-indian-economy-1947-2019-tryst-
with-destiny-other-stories-1565801528109.html
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1053482218306788