Abstract
This study reviews the emerging structure of employment services in India, with specific focus on the nature, role and outcomes of partnerships in delivering employment services and active labour market policies (ALMP). The relevance and performance of the National Employment Service (NES) of the Government of India, designed to mitigate labour market mismatches, enhance skills and increase employment opportunities, had been waning over the years. The NES is currently undergoing dramatic changes in its structure. In this revamped employment service set-up, partnerships between the public and private sectors play a key role. After delineating the background for the establishment of the refashioned NES through the National Career Service (NCS), this study traces the nature of the partnerships that are evolving, and the lessons learnt.