India is being hit with a major rise in unemployment as the country gears up for crucial elections amidst mounting challenges for the Modi govt. According to recent reports by Reuters, the administration's struggle to create employment opportunities, particularly for its rising youth population, stands as a pressing concern.
Recent data underscores the severity of the situation, revealing that a staggering 83% of the country's youth are currently without jobs. Additionally, an alarming 90% find themselves forced to work outside their respective fields, indicating a mismatch between skills and available opportunities.
The International Labor Organization's India Employment Report 2024 paints a stark picture, highlighting that one in every three Indian youths is unemployed. This figure, which represents the highest in South Asia between 2010 and 2019, underscores the urgent need for intervention.
While official statistics suggest a marginal decrease in the unemployment rate from 3.4% in 2013 to 3.2% in 2022, recent economic indicators tell a different story. The Center for Monitoring Indian Economy's report reveals a sharp increase, with the unemployment rate soaring to 7.6% in March.
The consequences of this unemployment crisis extend beyond economic realms, spurring individuals to resort to both legal and illegal means for sustenance. Human trafficking has surged, and there's a concerning trend of Indian migrants seeking opportunities abroad, with destinations like the United States, the United Kingdom, and Israel witnessing an influx of job-seekers.
Critics argue that the Modi govt's promises of job creation, particularly to marginalized communities like Muslims, have remained unfulfilled. Instead, the administration's actions have fueled discontent among minorities, exacerbating socio-economic challenges.
