India's factory workforce crosses 20 million; industrial output surges

India's factory workforce crossed the 20 million mark in 2024-25, driven by employment gains in West Bengal, Telangana, Maharashtra, and Uttar Pradesh. The food products and electrical equipment sectors led the growth in manufacturing jobs during this period.

Industrial gross value added (GVA) rose 9.6% to reach Rs 26.9 lakh crore, reflecting strong output growth across the manufacturing sector. Worker productivity increased to Rs 11 lakh per worker, though productivity declined in several key states. Average worker earnings climbed to Rs 3.8 lakh per annum, indicating improved compensation levels in the factory workforce.

These metrics collectively demonstrate expanding capacity in India's manufacturing base, with both employment and output measures showing significant gains year-on-year.