The success of India’s green mobility mission will ultimately depend not only on how many electric vehicles it produces, but also on how effectively it equips its workforce to thrive in the new economy

India’s EV transition is gathering significant momentum, as is evident from impressive figures showing EV sales, expanding charging infrastructure, ambitious manufacturing targets, and a vision of clean and sustainable mobility solutions. However, beneath this narrative lies a less visible yet critical question: who will power this transition?

While much of the discourse has focused on the environmental and economic benefits that this transition offers, its implications for the workforce that underpins India’s mobility ecosystem call for equal attention. This is particularly noteworthy for a country where nearly 80 per cent of the non-agricultural workforce is concentrated in the informal sector. Among them are an estimated 4.29 million roadside mechanics and professional garage owners who provide repair services across the country. As EV technologies become more advanced and demand for EVs increases across the white- and blue-collar segments, particularly among the aspiring middle class, these informal workers risk being left behind unless they are equipped with the skills and empowered to participate in the emerging EV ecosystem. Therefore, it is imperative that the workforce be made future-ready to adapt to changing technologies, which will be critical in enabling a transition that is not only environmentally sustainable but also socially inclusive.

While certain occupations associated with ICE vehicles are expected to decline over........

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