- Despite falling headline unemployment rates in India, there is a persistent crisis of 'decent work' characterized by low earnings, lack of social security, and rising informalization. - A significant portion of employment growth is concentrated in low-productivity sectors, self-employment, or unpaid family labor rather than regular, salaried formal jobs. - The quality of jobs remains a critical bottleneck for translating economic growth into inclusive human development and demographic dividend. - Policy measures must focus beyond mere job creation to ensure wage security, social protection, and formalization of the workforce. - **Periodic Labour Force Survey:** India's official national survey framework launched by the NSO to measure employment, unemployment rates, and labor force participation across rural and urban sectors on periodic bases. - **International Labour Organization:** A specialized UN agency setting international labor standards, promoting rights at work, and advancing the Decent Work Agenda encompassing fair income, social security, and safe conditions. **Introduction** The article critically examines the paradox of falling unemployment rates alongside a profound deficit of 'decent work' in India. It highlights issues such as informalization, low wages, lack of social security, and the prevalence of vulnerable self-employment, arguing that quantity of employment must be matched by quality for true inclusive growth. **Core Issue and Detailed Points** - Despite falling headline unemployment rates in India, there is a persistent crisis of 'decent work' characterized by low earnings, lack of social security, and rising informalization. - A significant portion of employment growth is concentrated in low-productivity sectors, self-employment, or unpaid family labor rather than regular, salaried formal jobs. - The quality of jobs remains a critical bottleneck for translating economic growth into inclusive human development and demographic dividend. - Policy measures must focus beyond mere job creation to ensure wage security, social protection, and formalization of the workforce. **Key Statutory Bodies, Acts & Concepts** - **Periodic Labour Force Survey:** India's official national survey framework launched by the NSO to measure employment, unemployment rates, and labor force participation across rural and urban sectors on periodic bases. - **International Labour Organization:** A specialized UN agency setting international labor standards, promoting rights at work, and advancing the Decent Work Agenda encompassing fair income, social security, and safe conditions.