Unemployment Crisis in Kashmir: A Growing Concern for the Youth .On my way home on the school bus, I noticed a man laboring at a construction site. My teacher pointed out that despite his numerous degrees and high qualifications, he was doing manual labour. This striking image left me stunned and opened my eyes to the deep-rooted unemployment crisis in Kashmir. This man is not an isolated case—countless educated individuals in the region sit idle at home, unable to secure jobs despite their skills and credentials. The unemployment rate in Jammu and Kashmir, as reported by the Centre for Monitoring Indian Economy (CMIE), stands at a staggering 25%, far exceeding the national average of 7.6%. Among all states and Union Territories, only Haryana surpasses it. A key factor driving this crisis is the region’s weak private sector, leaving many with no option but to compete for scarce government jobs. For highly qualified individuals, the inability to find work turns them into financial burdens for their families, despite the significant investments their parents made in their education. This situation breeds embarrassment, frustration, and a sense of hopelessness. The consequences of unemployment extend beyond economics, taking a severe toll on mental and emotional well-being. The stress of joblessness often drives individuals to depression, anxiety, and peer pressure. Tragically, some turn to drugs as an escape, only to find themselves trapped in a vicious cycle. Without income, they resort to theft, deceit, or scamming to fund their habits. While the government promotes campaigns to combat drug abuse, these efforts are unlikely to succeed without addressing the root cause: unemployment. I believe that 90% of drug use in the region stems from joblessness—a loss not just for individuals, but for the nation as a whole. This crisis also affects the younger generation’s outlook. Students are losing interest in education as they witness their elders struggle with unemployment. Why invest in studies, they wonder, if it leads nowhere? Meanwhile, many skilled youths are seeking opportunities abroad, contributing to the growth of other nations while Kashmir loses its talent. In contrast, countries that provide jobs empower their youth to become valuable assets, driving progress and development. The lack of opportunities has far-reaching implications. Parents who spent years supporting their children’s education now find themselves financially strained, as their highly qualified sons and daughters remain dependent. This reversal of roles—where the youth cannot care for aging parents—adds to the emotional burden. Families and communities suffer as strained relationships, mental health issues, and a pervasive sense of despair take hold. Addressing unemployment in Kashmir demands urgent action. The government must establish industries and firms to create jobs, even if this alone won’t fully resolve the crisis. Encouraging entrepreneurship and expanding the private sector could also unlock opportunities for the region’s skilled workforce. Beyond economics, emotional and psychological support is essential to help individuals cope with the toll of joblessness. By tackling both the practical and human aspects of this issue, we can restore dignity to the unemployed and enable them to contribute positively to society. In conclusion, unemployment in Kashmir is at its peak, and the situation worsens daily. It’s not just about a lack of jobs—it’s about the loss of potential, the erosion of hope, and the ripple effects on families and communities. A multifaceted approach is needed: job creation through industrial growth, empowerment of local talent, and support for mental well-being. Only then can Kashmir’s youth transform from a generation of frustration into one of opportunity, benefiting both themselves and the nation.

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