Why Are Highly Educated Youth Competing for Low-Level Jobs in Odisha?

A Disturbing Trend in Employment

Rourkela: A stark illustration of the escalating employment crisis in Odisha emerged as thousands of well-educated individuals, including BTech and MBA graduates, gathered for a recruitment test on Monday. This exam was for a mere 107 Home Guard positions in the Rourkela police district, a role that only requires a Class V education.

Officials reported that 9,061 candidates applied for these positions across 22 police stations. Out of these, 7,484 candidates showed up for the examination at Ispat Stadium in Sector-6, while 1,577 did not attend.

Candidates began arriving at the venue as early as 5 AM, equipped with their admit cards and necessary documents. The examination was conducted in two parts: an Odia writing test from 7 AM to 8 AM, followed by a general knowledge assessment from 8:30 AM to 9:30 AM.

Despite the minimal educational requirement, many participants held degrees in engineering, management, and other technical fields.

Ashish Rath, a BTech graduate, expressed his disbelief, stating, “I never thought I would be applying for a job meant for someone with just a Class V pass certificate. However, there are hardly any suitable jobs available. I have been unemployed for two years — this is my last option.”

The recruitment process was carried out under strict security measures. Rourkela SP Nitesh Wadhwani oversaw the examination site personally. A significant police presence was deployed, including ten platoons, three additional SPs, seven DSPs, 17 inspectors, four sub-inspectors, and 100 home guards. After the exam, the answer sheets were securely transported to the police headquarters.

Rourkela DSP Ramakant Sahu announced that results would be available within ten days. Those who qualify will receive individual letters for the subsequent medical examination.

The selected home guards will earn a daily wage of Rs 612, which amounts to approximately Rs 18,360 monthly. Although this pay is modest, it has not deterred highly qualified candidates, highlighting the alarming disconnect between educational qualifications and available job opportunities.

The significant turnout has ignited discussions regarding the employment landscape in the state and raised concerns about the effectiveness of current job creation strategies.