“India’s demographic dividend will only translate into growth if employability keeps pace with scale. As we approach Budget 2026, the focus must shift from job numbers to job readiness and formalisation. Rationalising the 18% GST on manpower staffing would significantly lower barriers to formal employment and expand social security coverage. Similarly, Section 80JJAA should reflect the current wage realities and aligning it with the Employment Linked Incentive framework would meaningfully support hiring. Greater predictability in tax assessments is also critical, high-pitched assessments disrupt cash flows and create avoidable uncertainty. Ultimately, growth must be measured not just by GDP, but by the quality and sustainability of employment created.”
– Neeraj Jain, CFO Quess Corp
