The Madhya Pradesh Employment Study (2024–2029) provides a detailed examination of the state’s employment scenario, addressing key challenges and offering practical strategies for job creation and wage enhancement. The report reveals persistent unemployment and underemployment, particularly among youth and socially disadvantaged groups. Although the state has experienced economic growth, a large portion of the workforce remains stuck in informal, low-wage jobs lacking security and benefits. There is a noticeable mismatch between formal education and market requirements, leading to high levels of educated unemployment.
Employment in Madhya Pradesh is largely concentrated in agriculture, construction, and informal services. A substantial share of the workforce is self-employed or working in casual labor conditions. Gender and caste-based wage disparities are widespread, disproportionately affecting women and marginalized communities. The report critiques the limited effectiveness of existing employment schemes and advocates a new direction focused on improving productivity and income within existing sectors.
It introduces the DISC strategy—Discovery, Innovation, Skill, and Commercialization—as a tool to drive district-level economic growth tailored to local strengths. The One District One Product initiative and development of district export hubs are highlighted as opportunities to enhance local economies and create sustainable employment.
Key sectoral recommendations include diversifying agriculture, improving market access in horticulture, supporting cooperatives in animal husbandry and fisheries, and promoting non-timber forest products and eco-tourism. The report calls for collaboration among government, private sector, and civil society to ensure inclusive and sustainable employment growth across Madhya Pradesh.
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 Madhya Pradesh 2024-2029
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