Apple’s Indian ecosystem flourishes with over 1.5 lakh direct jobs from PLI scheme

A recent report highlights Apple’s significant contribution to job creation in India, with over 1,50,000 people directly employed in its ecosystem since its participation in the country’s production-linked incentive (PLI) scheme for smartphones in August 2021. Additionally, around 3,00,000 indirect jobs have been generated through companies benefiting from the PLI scheme. 

The majority of those employed are first-time job seekers aged between 19 and 24 years, according to estimates from government officials and experts. Companies receiving PLI benefits are required to report employment data to the government, ensuring transparency in job creation efforts.

Apple’s Expanding Presence and Job Creation

Apple’s direct employment in India stands at 3,000 people, while the development of its iOS application supports over 10,00,000 jobs, officials noted. Overall, the Apple ecosystem is estimated to have created over 4 lakh jobs, both directly and indirectly, in the last 32 months. Despite challenges in key markets like the US and China, Apple has intensified its focus on India, the world’s second-largest smartphone market.

Building a Robust Supplier Ecosystem

Since initiating iPhone manufacturing in India in 2017, Apple has expanded its local production under the PLI scheme, collaborating with suppliers such as Foxconn, Wistron, and Pegatron to bolster manufacturing capabilities. Foxconn leads in job creation with 41,000 jobs, followed by Wistron with 27,300 jobs and Pegatron with 9,200 jobs. The supplier ecosystem spans multiple states and involves companies like Tata Electronics and Salcomp Technologies, contributing to the production of various iPhone components and creating over 70,000 direct jobs.

Supporting Growth through Education and Development

To further support its expanding ecosystem, Apple has launched educational programs and initiatives focused on women’s health as part of its $50-million Supplier Employee Development Fund. These efforts aim to empower and upskill individuals within the ecosystem, fostering long-term growth and sustainability.

Apple’s production figures in FY24 exceeded ₹1 lakh crore in February, surpassing PLI targets and solidifying its position as a leading phone manufacturer in India. With its continued investment and focus on job creation and development initiatives, Apple is poised to further contribute to India’s economic growth and technological advancement.