India’s Construction Growth Faces 2 Million Skilled Worker Deficit, Says Hiranandani

Urgent push for skilling, faster build technology, slum redevelopment, and a clear rental housing policy

India’s construction industry remains a central engine of economic growth and urban transformation across the country. The sector is now confronting a significant shortage of skilled labour estimated at nearly two million workers across core trades. Veteran developer and NAREDCO Chairman Niranjan Hiranandani highlighted this concern during a recent address in Nagpur, noting that demand is especially strong for electricians, carpenters, painters, and plumbers. He cautioned that the gap must be addressed quickly to sustain the sector’s growth trajectory and to protect delivery timelines for both housing and infrastructure projects.

Hiranandani emphasised that housing continues to be one of the most effective pathways for wealth creation and employment generation. He pointed to strong momentum in sales as well as consistent project launches in major metros and fast growing tier two cities. According to him, the most practical response to the labour shortfall combines targeted skilling, formal apprenticeships, and time bound certification programs. This approach can stabilise site productivity, improve workmanship, and create predictable career pathways for young workers entering the trades.

He urged wider adoption of modern construction methods to offset capacity constraints. Precast systems, modular construction, and digital project controls can compress schedules, minimise errors, and lift overall efficiency. He also called for a stronger policy push on slum rehabilitation and rental housing so that urban affordability improves while new supply remains steady. Clear rental guidelines can expand formal options for migrant and entry level households, which in turn supports labour mobility and healthier city economics.

Hiranandani underlined the importance of credibility and transparency as the backbone of real estate. Consistent delivery, clear pricing, and strong customer communication build trust and drive referral led sales. He cited rapid booking in recent launches as evidence of resilient buyer confidence.

A coherent plan that brings together large scale skill development, technology adoption, and practical rental policy can narrow the labour gap while deepening the sector’s contribution to inclusive growth. With timely action, India’s construction engine can sustain momentum, protect project timelines, and broaden access to quality housing.