Jammu & Kashmir is facing a serious unemployment crisis, compounded by a reservation policy that many believe favors certain groups at the expense of merit. Educated youth in the region are voicing their concerns, calling for a system where merit alone determines recruitment and admissions. They believe this approach will ensure fairness and equal opportunities for everyone.
The unemployment rate in Jammu & Kashmir is a staggering 23.5%, much higher than the national average of 7.6%, as reported by the Centre for Monitoring Indian Economy (CMIE). This issue is particularly severe among educated youth.
Key statistics highlight the gravity of the situation:
More than 3.5 lakh graduates remain jobless despite earning degrees.
Around 1.2 lakh postgraduates are struggling to find suitable jobs.
Thousands of B.Tech, MBBS, and B.Ed graduates are without work due to a lack of opportunities.
Each year, 50,000 graduates and 15,000 postgraduates enter the job market, further increasing competition for limited opportunities.
This situation has left educated youth frustrated and uncertain about their future, sparking a growing demand for change.
The reservation policy in government jobs and educational institutions is seen as a significant hurdle. While its purpose is to uplift disadvantaged groups, many argue that it often benefits individuals at the expense of deserving open merit candidates.
Currently, the reservation breakdown includes:
Open Merit (OM): 55-60%, though often reduced due to overlapping reservations.
Scheduled Castes (SC): 8%, sometimes exceeding their population share.
Scheduled Tribes (ST): 10%, with concerns over underutilization in some areas.
Other Backward Classes (OBC): 4%, limiting opportunities for non-reserved candidates.
Economically Weaker Sections (EWS): 10%, though considered insufficient for addressing the needs of economically disadvantaged candidates.
Educated youth argue that the policy often rewards individuals irrespective of merit, leaving many high-performing candidates feeling overlooked.
To address these concerns, many are calling for a shift to a merit-based system where transparent screening tests determine selection. Such a system would ensure fair competition, efficiency, and trust in the recruitment and admission process.
In recent government recruitment drives, a significant portion of positions was reserved, leaving fewer opportunities for open merit candidates. For example, in a 2023 JKPSC recruitment for 500 posts, 280 positions were open merit, while 220 were reserved. Similarly, in educational admissions, reserved category candidates often secure seats in premier institutions despite lower scores, creating resentment among high-scoring students.
Addressing the unemployment crisis requires immediate and effective solutions. Revising recruitment policies to make them transparent and merit-driven, creating more jobs in both public and private sectors, promoting entrepreneurship, and investing in skill development are some of the key measures that can help.
The demand for equality and fairness is gaining momentum, with educated youth strongly advocating for the abolition of reservations and a focus on merit. Transitioning to a system based on merit will not only reduce unemployment but also foster a sense of justice and inclusion.
Conclusion
A society that values merit and equal opportunity creates a foundation for growth and progress. As Jammu & Kashmir struggles with high unemployment and a contentious reservation policy, it is essential to adopt a system that prioritizes fairness and transparency. By focusing on merit, the region can build a brighter and more inclusive future for its youth.
Author: Mohmad Husain Lone
RVC IHRC
