Educated And Unemployed: India's Angry Young Voters

Mahesh Bhopale, a 27-year-old graduate, resides in the economically challenged suburbs of Mumbai, India's financial hub. He holds a degree but remains unemployed, joining the ranks of millions of young Indians who share his aspirations for secure and well-compensated government jobs.

India's youth population is substantial and rapidly growing. According to the United Nations, approximately 650 million people in India are under the age of 35, making it the world's youngest population. However, this demographic dividend comes with its challenges, particularly unemployment.

The Indian labour market is characterized by significant informal employment and a high level of underemployment. According to the Centre for Monitoring Indian Economy (CMIE), India's unemployment rate stood at 8.5% as of March 2023. This figure is even higher for the youth population, with an estimated unemployment rate of around 15%.

The Indian government employs a large workforce through various schemes and departments. According to data from the Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions, as of January 2023, there were approximately 31 lakh (3.1 million) central government employees and around 58 lakh (5.8 million) state government employees. These jobs are often considered desirable due to their security and benefits, including pension and other perks.

Mahesh and other young, educated Indians aspire for these jobs for several reasons. Firstly, they offer financial stability and security, which is crucial for young people starting their careers. Secondly, they provide a sense of prestige and social status, which can be important factors in Indian society. Lastly, they offer a degree of job security that is often lacking in the private sector or informal employment.

However, competition for these jobs is fierce, with millions of applicants vying for a limited number of positions. The recruitment process is often lengthy and complex, involving written examinations, interviews, and background checks. Additionally, corruption and nepotism can also play a role in the hiring process, making it challenging for merit to be the sole deciding factor.

Despite these challenges, many young Indians like Mahesh continue to pursue these jobs, driven by their aspirations for a better future. They attend coaching classes to prepare for competitive examinations and spend hours studying and revising to increase their chances of success. The frustration and anger that come with unemployment and the struggle to secure a decent livelihood can lead to disillusionment and political unrest, particularly among the youth population.

In conclusion, Mahesh Bhopale's story is just one among millions of young, educated Indians who dream of secure and well-compensated government jobs. The high unemployment rate among the youth population and the allure of government jobs create a complex situation that requires urgent attention from policymakers to address the root causes and create opportunities for employment and skill development in various sectors.