The Chhattisgarh Employment Study (2024–2029) presents a detailed analysis of the employment challenges facing the state and outlines strategic approaches for sustainable job creation and wage enhancement. Unemployment and underemployment remain persistent, particularly among the youth and marginalized communities. Even with economic development, a large share of the population is engaged in low-paying, informal jobs, often without social security or job stability. A major concern highlighted is the mismatch between education and the skills demanded by the labor market, resulting in high rates of educated but unemployed individuals.
Most employment in Chhattisgarh is found in agriculture, construction, and informal sectors. The majority of workers are self-employed or in casual labor, which contributes to poor income stability. Wage gaps continue to affect women and disadvantaged social groups more acutely. Existing employment generation programs have been found to be insufficient, necessitating a shift in policy focus toward enhancing productivity within sectors rather than merely moving labor across sectors.
The report recommends adopting the DISC strategy—Discovery, Innovation, Skill, and Commercialization—as a district-specific approach to employment generation. It emphasizes the importance of tapping into local strengths and developing them into viable economic activities. Programs like One District One Product and district export hubs are seen as catalysts for regional economic development. Sectoral interventions are suggested in agriculture, horticulture, animal husbandry, fisheries, and forestry, with an emphasis on cooperatives, value addition, and market access.
The report concludes that coordinated action from the state, private sector, and civil society is essential for inclusive and long-term employment growth in Chhattisgarh.
Key Words:
Unemployment, Informal Sector, Wage Disparities, Skill Development, DISC Strategy, One District One Product, Agriculture, Inclusive Growth.
Status and Prospects of Employment Generation and Wage Enhancement in Chhattisgarh 2024-2029
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