Unemployment

The Prime Minister Internship Scheme, launched by the Government of India to enhance employability among young graduates, has recorded a muted response in Punjab. Despite the state’s persistent challenge of educated unemployment, participation levels and candidate retention have remained below expectations. The programme offers structured industry exposure and a monthly stipend of Rs 5,000 to selected interns placed across leading companies.

India’s unemployment rate rose to 4.8% in December, reflecting emerging pressures in the labor market amid uneven economic growth and sectoral slowdowns. Analysts attribute the uptick to seasonal employment shifts, restrained hiring in manufacturing and services, and the ongoing transition toward informal-to-formal workforce integration. While urban and rural dynamics vary, the increase underscores the need for policy measures that stimulate job creation, skill development, and entrepreneurial activity.

India’s unemployment rate declined to 4.7 percent in November, signaling gradual improvement in labor market conditions amid steady economic activity. The moderation reflects stronger hiring across select sectors, seasonal employment gains and sustained momentum in services and manufacturing. While urban job creation remained stable, rural employment also showed signs of recovery, supported by agricultural activity and allied industries. Economists view the data as encouraging, though they caution that employment quality and wage growth remain critical challenges.

India’s unemployment rate rose to 5.2% in September, signaling a modest slowdown in labor market absorption amid evolving economic conditions. Analysts attribute the uptick to factors including sector-specific job fluctuations, rural-urban employment disparities, and ongoing adjustments in post-pandemic economic activity. The increase highlights challenges in aligning workforce skillsets with emerging industry demands and sustaining robust job creation.

India’s unemployment rate declined to 5.1% in August, according to the latest government survey, reflecting signs of recovery in the labor market. The decrease is attributed to improved economic activity, expansion in manufacturing and services sectors, and seasonal employment in agriculture and allied industries. Analysts note that while the decline is encouraging, sustained efforts are needed to ensure quality employment and wage growth.

India’s labor market showed signs of resilience in August as the unemployment rate eased to 5.1%, according to the latest government survey. The decline reflects stronger hiring momentum across urban and rural regions, supported by seasonal demand, infrastructure expansion, and service-sector recovery. Policymakers view the moderation as an encouraging indicator of economic stability, though concerns remain about underemployment and wage growth.

Nepal is undergoing one of its most turbulent periods in recent history, marked by massive youth-led protests, a sudden political transition, and mounting economic uncertainties. The unrest, triggered by a government ban on social media and fueled by anger over corruption and unemployment, culminated in the resignation of Prime Minister K.P. Sharma Oli. While the army has been deployed to enforce order, the economic fallout is significant, with tourism, trade, and investment confidence rattled.

Nepal is witnessing growing public discontent fueled by years of elitism, entrenched nepotism, pervasive graft, and persistent unemployment. Despite promises of reform and prosperity following political transitions, large segments of the population—particularly youth—remain disillusioned with the state’s inability to deliver tangible progress. Corruption scandals, political favoritism, and limited job opportunities have eroded trust in institutions, weakening public confidence in governance.

India’s latest government survey indicates a decline in the national unemployment rate to 5.2% in July, marking a notable improvement in labour market conditions. Analysts attribute this reduction to robust economic activity, increased hiring across manufacturing and services, and government-led employment initiatives. While the figures suggest a positive trend, underemployment and informal sector challenges persist, underscoring the need for sustained policy support.