Contrary to tall economic growth claims, Indian professionals flock to govt jobs
New Delhi: In contravention to the tall claims about economic growth by the Modi regime, millions of young Indians are vying for government jobs.
According to recent data, over 220 million people applied for federal jobs between 2014-2022, with only 722,000 selected.
The allure of government employment lies in its promise of job security, benefits, and prestige. Sunil Kumar, a 30-year-old who has spent nine years preparing for government job exams, said, “There is more security in government jobs. If it happens, the struggle of ten years will be worth it.”
The demand for government jobs has created a lucrative industry for coaching institutes and cram schools, with many offering online classes to meet the growing demand.
The Indian government is under pressure to create jobs, with the opposition party estimating nearly 6 million unfilled government positions.
Experts say the preference for government jobs reflects cultural and economic anxieties in India, where job security and stability are highly valued. “The private sector is based on meritocracy and responds to economic ups and downs,” said Rituparna Chakraborty, co-founder of staffing firm TeamLease Services. “In the government sector, once you get a job, mostly irrespective of your performance, your future is secure.”