NEW DELHI (Monitoring Desk) – A startling report released by Azim Premji University has exposed a deepening crisis in India’s labor market, revealing that over 11 million graduates are currently unemployed despite holding higher education degrees.
The research highlights a dangerous and widening gap between educational attainment and available job opportunities, putting the future of millions of youth at stake.
Key Findings from the Report:
- Graduate Unemployment: Out of 63 million graduates aged between 20 and 29, approximately 11 million are unable to find work.
- Youth Most Affected: The unemployment rate among graduates aged 15–25 has reached a staggering 40%, while it stands at 20% for the 25–29 age group.
- Lack of Stable Jobs: The report reveals a grim reality for job seekers; only 7% of unemployed graduates manage to secure a permanent salaried position within one year.
- Wasted Human Capital: India’s youth population (ages 15–29) stands at 367 million, accounting for one-third of the total working-age population. While 263 million of these have completed their education and are ready to enter the workforce, the market lacks the capacity to absorb them.
Economic Outlook: Economists warn that these figures reflect a severe structural imbalance between India’s education system and its job market. Experts suggest that if not addressed immediately, this disparity could escalate into a major socio-economic crisis.