In a recent parliamentary session, the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) provided updates on the unemployment situation and job creation in the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir. Responding to Congress Member of Parliament Akhilesh Prasad Singh’s query, Union Minister of State for Home, Nityanand Rai, shared essential statistics regarding the unemployment rate and employment drive post the abrogation of Article 370 in 2019. According to the MHA’s statement, the unemployment rate among individuals aged 15 to 29 years in Jammu and Kashmir was reported to be 18.3%.
This figure was derived from the Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS) conducted by the National Sample Survey Office (NSSO) during July 2020 to June 2021. While specific data for educated youth in the region for the period of April to June 2021 was not available, Rai emphasized the government’s commitment to addressing the issue of unemployment in the Union Territory. Rai further disclosed the positive impact of the government’s efforts in filling job vacancies after the landmark decision to revoke Article 370. As per his response, more than 29,000 vacancies have been filled, and a significant recruitment drive has been initiated.
The government has advertised over 7,900 vacancies, with examinations already conducted for more than 2,500 positions. This ongoing recruitment process aims to streamline the identification of vacancies and accelerate employment opportunities in the region. In addition to large-scale recruitment efforts, the government of Jammu and Kashmir has implemented various self-employment schemes to foster sustainable income generation. Initiatives such as Mission Youth, Rural Livelihood Mission, Himayat, PMEGP, Avsar, and Tejaswani have been introduced to offer subsidized loans and support to aspiring entrepreneurs.
These schemes are designed to empower the youth and create an enabling environment for job creation and skill development. The abrogation of Article 370 and 35(A) in 2019 marked a significant turning point for the region, leading to the bifurcation of Jammu and Kashmir into two Union territories – Jammu and Kashmir, and Ladakh. Since then, the government’s dedication to tackling unemployment and bolstering employment opportunities has been evident through strategic policymaking and proactive measures.
While challenges remain, the recent data and initiatives presented in Parliament signal a steady progress in addressing unemployment concerns in Jammu and Kashmir. The government’s commitment to sustained efforts in job creation and skill enhancement aims to bring about positive change and empower the youth in the region for a brighter and more prosperous future.