Chhattisgarh’s economy is growing, but jobs aren’t keeping up. The state needs 15 lakh new jobs over the next five years, but current growth patterns won’t create more than 5 lakh- leaving a massive employment gap. Agriculture still employs most people (74.5%) but contributes just 17% to the economy, meaning many workers are stuck in low-productivity, low-income jobs. Meanwhile, industries like mining and manufacturing are capital-intensive and don’t generate enough employment, and the services sector remains underdeveloped. The challenge is clear: how can Chhattisgarh create more jobs while ensuring economic and social growth?
The report outlines several job creation strategies. First, restoring degraded land, forests, and water sources could provide 7 lakh jobs, especially in rural areas, while improving long-term agricultural productivity. Second, developing small towns with better roads, housing, and infrastructure could create 3 lakh more jobs for skilled and unskilled workers alike.
The state is also well-positioned for tourism and logistics growth. With its rich cultural heritage and strategic location, Chhattisgarh can attract high-spending tourists and strengthen its role as a logistics hub, adding another 4 lakh jobs with minimal government investment.
Another immediate solution is filling 80,000 vacant government jobs- especially in schools, healthcare, and law enforcement-improving both employment and public service delivery. The report also suggests skilling programs and policy incentives to attract industries that create jobs, rather than just profits.
The plan would require ₹49,250 crore (about 9% of the state’s budget) over five years, but the payoff is millions of livelihoods, economic stability, and sustainable growth. Chhattisgarh has the resources- it just needs the right policies to unlock its full potential.
Keywords: Jobless Growth, Employment, Natural Resource Regeneration, Agriculture, Manufacturing, Tourism, Logistics, Infrastructure,Demographic Dividend, Public Services, Chattisgarh
Jobful Growth for Chhattisgarh -2019-2024
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