To obtain full benefits of demographic dividend, what should India do?

Demographic dividend refers to the economic growth potential resulting from shifts in a population’s age structure, specifically when the proportion of the working-age population (15-64) is larger than the non-working-age population (0-14 and 65+). To fully realize this dividend, the working-age population needs to be skilled and employable. A) Promoting skill development: This is the most direct way to harness the demographic dividend. A skilled workforce increases productivity, attracts investment, and drives economic growth. B) Introducing more social security schemes: While important for social welfare, social security schemes don't directly translate into a productive workforce. They address the needs of the vulnerable but don't enhance the skills of the working-age population. C) Reducing infant mortality rate: Reducing infant mortality is crucial for overall human development, but its impact on the current demographic dividend is limited. It affects the future population structure, not the present working-age population. D) Privatization of higher education: Privatization, while potentially improving quality, doesn't guarantee skill development relevant to market needs. It can also exacerbate inequalities in access to education. Therefore, skill development is the most crucial step to capitalize on the demographic dividend.