Unemployment in Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) is an urgent and complex issue. With recent data indicating an alarming youth unemployment rate of around 18.3%, J&K’s struggle is far above the national average. Nearly 70% of the population is under 35, a generation that seeks not only stability but opportunities to thrive. Addressing this issue is essential for the government, which has recently taken steps—such as relaxing the upper age limit for the Combined Competitive Examination (CCE-2024)—to provide greater access to job opportunities. However, additional bold and systematic measures are needed to ensure a comprehensive solution.
Immediate Solutions: Infrastructure Development and Direct Job Creation
One of the most effective ways to create immediate jobs is through infrastructure projects. Roads, highways, and telecommunications improvements are essential, especially given the region’s challenging winter months when connectivity can become unreliable. Large-scale projects, such as enhancing the Srinagar-Jammu National Highway, could create thousands of jobs in construction and support future investments in trade and tourism. The benefits extend beyond employment; these projects would improve connectivity, facilitating better access to education and healthcare for remote communities.
The recent Army recruitment rally in Baramulla, where thousands of young candidates gathered in hopes of securing a role, shows the demand for structured employment avenues. Such drives are highly impactful but temporary. To address J&K’s unemployment, the government must supplement these with ongoing infrastructure projects that offer sustained employment for unskilled and semi-skilled workers across the region.
Leveraging J&K’s Tourism Potential for Job Creation
Tourism has long been one of J&K’s strongest industries and could quickly offer job opportunities across a range of skill levels. By marketing Kashmir as a year-round destination—promoting winter sports, cultural festivals, and eco-tourism—the government can create seasonal employment opportunities that support local businesses. Programs aimed at training young people in hospitality, guiding services, and operations can offer them meaningful employment and skills.
Moreover, expanding tourism can have a ripple effect on related industries, from transport and accommodation to local handicrafts. With the right infrastructure in place, tourism could not only employ locals but encourage entrepreneurship as young people capitalize on the flow of visitors.
Strengthening Public Sector Employment
The government has made efforts to address the employment gap by filling over 29,000 posts since the abrogation of Article 370. But many roles in essential services like health, education, and public administration remain vacant. Prioritizing these roles would provide stable jobs while improving critical services for the people of J&K. By streamlining recruitment and increasing transparency, the government can ensure these positions are filled efficiently.
The recent decision to extend the upper age limit for CCE-2024 applicants is a promising step, as it gives more candidates an opportunity to compete for these roles. This bold move could inspire similar initiatives that make public sector positions more accessible, particularly for those whose career paths may have been disrupted by years of conflict and instability.
Vocational Training and Skill Development
J&K’s youth must be equipped with the skills that align with today’s job market. Skill development programs can be an excellent bridge, training young people in sectors with high demand, such as healthcare, technology, and sustainable energy. Utilizing central schemes like the Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PMKVY), the government can establish skill development centers focusing on these high-growth fields.
Collaboration with local universities and private sector organizations to develop targeted training programs can ensure that the region’s young workforce is competitive and versatile. Creating a skilled labor force will also make J&K more attractive to private investors in tech, pharmaceuticals, and renewable energy—industries that offer long-term, stable employment.
Fostering a Culture of Entrepreneurship
Long-term stability in J&K requires building a culture of entrepreneurship. The government could establish incubation centers that offer young entrepreneurs resources, mentorship, and low-interest loans. Programs that focus on high-potential areas like agribusiness, handicrafts, digital services, and tourism can stimulate local economies while creating job opportunities.
Encouraging entrepreneurship not only provides employment but empowers young people to become job creators. The government can further support these efforts by streamlining business registration processes, offering tax incentives, and reducing bureaucratic hurdles. Establishing partnerships with established businesses to guide and mentor local startups would also boost innovation in the region.
Boosting Private Sector Investment through Policy Reform
Attracting private sector investments requires a favorable business environment, where companies feel secure and confident in the infrastructure. By offering tax breaks and simplifying business regulations, J&K can draw companies in industries like IT, pharmaceuticals, and renewable energy. This, in turn, would lead to a more diversified economy less reliant on government jobs.
The creation of special economic zones (SEZs) or technology parks in regions with strong connectivity could attract high-demand fields, providing a ready market for skilled J&K youth. Continued improvements in law and order and a government commitment to stability are critical to attracting these investors.
Strengthening Rural Employment through Agriculture and Handicrafts
Agriculture and handicrafts have been the backbone of J&K’s rural economy for generations. By promoting high-value crops, organic farming, and horticulture, the government can revitalize this sector, creating jobs for young people in rural areas. Initiatives such as setting up processing units for apples, saffron, and walnuts can add value within the region, keeping profits local.
The handicrafts industry also presents an opportunity for self-employment. Programs that provide fair pricing, market access, and skill enhancement could transform traditional crafts into lucrative businesses. This would give artisans a stable income and help preserve Kashmir’s cultural heritage.
A Focus on Mental Health and Community
Unemployment not only affects livelihoods but also impacts the mental health and well-being of young people. Establishing support services, peer counseling programs, and recreational activities for youth can help prevent issues stemming from prolonged unemployment. This is essential in regions like J&K, where mental health support has historically been limited.
Creating spaces for youth engagement can build a sense of community and purpose, reducing feelings of isolation and frustration. Through such initiatives, the government can foster resilience among young people, helping them maintain their aspirations even during difficult periods.
Turning the Unemployment Crisis into an Opportunity for Growth
Jammu and Kashmir’s unemployment crisis is a complex issue requiring a multi-faceted approach. By investing in infrastructure, expanding tourism, filling public sector vacancies, promoting skill development, supporting entrepreneurship, and attracting private investment, the government can lay the foundation for a resilient economy. Initiatives such as relaxing age limits for examinations, while positive, must be part of a broader strategy that addresses both immediate and long-term needs.
The government has an opportunity to transform J&K into a region known for its talent, innovation, and growth potential. With determined action, J&K can offer its youth the chance to build successful futures within their homeland, turning the region’s challenges into a story of resilience and prosperity.
