TEAM GOEMKARPONN
Panaji: Goa’s unemployment crisis has reached unmanageable proportions, with the state’s unemployment rate now almost double that of the national average, as revealed by the Union Government’s own Planning and Statistics’ Periodic Labour Force Survey. This shocking statistic exposes the Goa government’s complete failure to create meaningful employment opportunities for its youth, said Goa Forward Party President Vijai Sardesai.
Sardesai stressed that the Goa government has shown neither the intention nor the vision to address the rising joblessness among Goan youth. He pointed out that despite repeated calls to prioritize local employment in the thriving pharmaceutical sector, companies are still hiring from outside the state, leaving local youth in despair and frustration. “Goan youth, despite being highly qualified, are being left out while opportunities in sectors like pharma go to people from outside the state,” he stated.
Reacting to the public outcry, and the repeated demands for rectification by Vijai Sardesai and his party, chief minister Pramod Sawant had promised legislation to ensure preference for local youth in employment. However, Sardesai noted with disappointment that the recently concluded assembly session saw no progress in this regard. Moreover, Labour Minister Babush Monserrate’s remarks that existing laws prevent local youth from being given employment protection highlight the government’s unwillingness to take concrete steps.
“Goa’s first Chief Minister had a mission to create employment, giving 50 lakh square meters of land to Zuari Agro for job creation. What has this government done? It has allowed this land to be subdivided, converted from industrial to settlement, and sold to the rich for Rs. 90,000 per square meter. Are second homes for the wealthy creating jobs for Goan youth?” questioned Sardesai.
He further condemned the state government for indulging in “cash for jobs” scams, where corruption has plagued the few government job openings that arise.
In conclusion, Sardesai lamented that the Goa government has abandoned its youth, forcing many to migrate to metropolitan cities and abroad in search of employment. “This is not just an economic crisis; it’s a serious social issue that could lead to a major law and order problem. The government’s lack of action has led to complete despair among our young generation,” he warned.
