A Call for Broader Perspective

In the contemporary socio cultural landscape of Kashmir Valley, a notable trend has emerged in the realm of matrimonial choices many girls and their families are increasingly giving preference to suitors who are employed in the government sector. While this inclination stems from the notion of job security, fixed income, and social status, it inadvertently creates challenges for countless capable and ambitious young men who are either working in the private sector or striving to establish themselves in alternative professional fields.
The issue becomes even more pressing when we consider the socio-economic realities of modern Kashmir. Government jobs are limited and highly competitive, with thousands of qualified youth vying for a handful of posts. In such a scenario, expecting every prospective groom to be a government employee is not only unrealistic but also unfair. Many hardworking and educated boys who contribute significantly to society through private enterprises, startups, teaching, IT, and other sectors are being overlooked simply because their jobs are not labelled as "secure" in the traditional sense.
This narrow criterion for marriage is gradually leading to a delay in the marriage age for many girls as well, as families continue to wait for a "perfect match" with a government tag. This creates a ripple effect that can pose social and psychological challenges for both genders. On one hand, capable boys face rejection and frustration despite being financially stable and morally upright; on the other hand, girls miss timely opportunities for companionship and stability due to unrealistic expectations.
In a time when Kashmir is struggling with unemployment and economic instability, it is crucial for society especially the youth to shift its mindset. Employment in the private sector, freelancing, entrepreneurship, and self-employment are equally respectable and contribute immensely to the region’s progress. Girls must be encouraged to see beyond job titles and assess potential partners based on character, values, mutual understanding, and long-term compatibility.
It is a high time we should challenge this deeply ingrained mindset. Parents and girls need to understand that in the modern epoch, work is work whether in a government office or in a private firm. By embracing this broader view, we can foster more meaningful and timely marriages and support a more balanced and just society.
Kashmir needs a new vision one that values honesty over hierarchy, ambition over appointment letters and real connection over rigid societal standards.

Email:---------------------showkatkathoo786@gmail.com