The recent statement made by Minister Vishwajit Rane has struck a chord with every Goan, reflecting the deep-seated concern over the lack of employment opportunities in the state.
The Minister’s call for the creation of 22,000 jobs and the subsequent response from BJP State President Sadanand Tanavade has sparked a heated debate, shedding light on the pressing issue of unemployment in Goa.
The release of data from the 2023-24 Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS) has revealed a troubling unemployment rate of 8.7% in Goa, which is more than double the national average. This alarming statistic has understandably fueled criticism of the government’s economic policies, particularly their impact on the state’s youth.
The report further highlights the challenging landscape of Goa’s job market, with a significant gender disparity in employment opportunities. The stark difference between the female unemployment rate, standing at 16.8%, and the male unemployment rate at 5.6%, underscores the urgent need for inclusive and equitable job creation initiatives.
In response to the Minister’s appeal, the BJP State chief acknowledged the need for clarification from Vishwajit Rane, emphasizing the complexity of the issue. However, the statement that “not everyone can be given government jobs” fails to address the larger concern regarding the availability of private sector employment opportunities in the state.
Tanavade refused to make any comments on the unemployment issue in the State.
Yes agreed, but Mr Tanavade must inform Goans where are the private jobs, the private industries are advertising in other states thus indicating they are not looking out for Goan youth.
The absence of substantial private sector job offerings in Goa has raised valid questions about the avenues available to Goan youth. The apparent lack of interest from private industries in employing local youth has further exacerbated the predicament, leaving many to ponder where the responsibility lies in addressing the unemployment crisis.
In such a scenario, where should Goan youth go?
Moreover, amidst the ongoing debate, allegations of cash-for-jobs scams have emerged, casting a shadow of doubt over the integrity of the existing employment processes. These allegations only serve to deepen the disillusionment among the youth and underscore the urgency for transparent and merit-based job allocation mechanisms.
It is evident that the issue of unemployment in Goa transcends political affiliations and demands proactive and collaborative efforts from all stakeholders. The pressing need for job creation, both in the public and private sectors, necessitates a concerted approach from the government, industries, and civil society to address the multifaceted challenges hindering employment opportunities for the state’s youth.
The impassioned plea made by Minister Vishwajit Rane resonates with the shared sentiment of every Goan grappling with the harsh reality of limited employment prospects.
If the BJP government cannot provide jobs then who will? Thus, whatever Vishwajit said was not wrong, it is an issue which is close to the heart of every Goan.
The onus lies on the government and private enterprises to work in tandem towards fostering a conducive environment for job creation, thereby empowering the youth and safeguarding the economic future of Goa.
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