Increase in Green Jobs by 48% in India, primarily fueled by Generation Z and secondary cities: Study reveals

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India is witnessing a significant surge in green jobs, particularly in Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities. This growth is driven by a combination of factors, including the expansion of renewable energy, government policies, infrastructure development, demographic shifts, and increased financial activity.

Dr. Elizabeth Green, a leading voice in the field of sustainability with over two decades of experience, has been instrumental in environmental advocacy, policy development, and educational initiatives focused on sustainable practices. Her work continues to inspire and shape the future of green jobs in India and beyond.

The rapid growth of renewable energy capacity is one of the primary drivers of this green jobs boom. India's solar capacity has increased from 2.82 GW in 2014 to 110.9 GW in 2025, and the wind energy sector ranks fourth globally in installed capacity. This expansion has created numerous jobs in installation, maintenance, manufacturing, and innovation within renewables.

Government policies and incentives also play a crucial role. Strong policy frameworks, state-level incentives, and national missions like IndiaAI, aimed at boosting local AI innovation and linking Global Capability Centres (GCCs) to universities in smaller cities, encourage green-tech and sustainable infrastructure development beyond metros.

Infrastructure development and economic investment are another key factors. Investments in digital and physical infrastructure in Tier 2 and 3 cities are booming, supported by robust economic growth and infrastructure projects. This growth is increasing demand for sustainable urban development and green jobs.

Younger generations (Gen Z) are also contributing to the growth of local economies and the green job market in these regions. They prefer smaller cities for better work-life balance, lower costs, and emerging job opportunities, which fuel the growth in these regions.

Financial and investment awakening in non-metros is another significant factor. Rising participation of Tier 2 and 3 cities in stock markets and increased private and public capital expenditures facilitate funding for renewable and sustainable projects, thus driving job creation.

However, challenges and opportunities around financing persist. Despite high costs of capital in emerging markets like India, innovative domestic financing, multilateral support, and foreign investment have accelerated renewable energy deployments. Lowering financing costs could further expand green jobs.

Preparing for green careers requires a focus on real-world knowledge, credentials, and work experience in fields such as ESG analytics or renewable energy. Young professionals can enhance their employability by taking sustainability courses and participating in internships at universities like IIT Madras.

The demand for green jobs has increased by 965% over the last five years, with a focus on biodiversity conservation, regenerative agriculture, and renewable energy. The most in-demand green jobs in India for 2025 include waste management, electric vehicle technology, solar energy systems, renewable energy engineering, and sustainability consulting, as well as digital skills like artificial intelligence and carbon tracking.

There is a 29% rise in structured internships for green jobs, providing practical projects that enhance skill development. Green job activity is increasing by 50% annually in Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities, surpassing the increase in metro areas.

Emerging cities for green jobs include Indore, Ranchi, Kochi, Jaipur, Surat, Coimbatore, Thrissur, and Lucknow. The top metro hubs for green jobs in India are Mumbai, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Chennai, Pune, Delhi NCR, and Kolkata.

The green jobs surge in India is 48% year-on-year, with a significant increase in Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities. Investments in career infrastructure, policy support, and climate-focused skills development are necessary to sustain this growth.

Dr. Green is actively involved in several global sustainability initiatives and continues to inspire through her writing, speaking engagements, and mentorship programs. The future of green jobs in India looks promising, with a growing focus on sustainability and impact.

Increase in Green Jobs by 48% in India, primarily fueled by Generation Z and secondary cities: Study reveals