Who is most unemployed in India: those living in cities or villages?
Government data on unemployment in India reveals that the employment situation differs significantly between cities and villages. Let's look at what the data says.
Employment and unemployment have always been a crucial issue for ordinary people in India. Every family wants their children to get a good job and have a secure life. Meanwhile, the latest Labor Force Survey data released by the government attempts to clarify the current employment situation in the country. This data helps us understand how many people are employed, how many are looking for jobs, and how the situation differs between cities and villages.
According to the recent survey, the unemployment rate among people aged 15 years and above in India is around 5 percent. This means that a small but significant portion of those who want to work are still unemployed. While the number may seem small, considering the country's large population, this figure represents the lives of millions of people. Unemployment directly impacts family income, children's education, and plans.
Employment Situation in Cities
In cities, the problem of unemployment is more pronounced than in villages. The number of educated young people in cities is constantly increasing, but job opportunities are not growing at the same pace. There is fierce competition in the private sector, and not every candidate gets their desired job. Many young people continue to search for jobs for a long time even after completing their degrees and professional courses. Inflation and the pressure of rent also make urban unemployment more difficult, as living in a city without a job is not easy.
Employment Situation in Villages
The unemployment rate in villages is slightly lower than in cities, but the challenges are no less significant. In rural areas, people find some form of employment through farming, manual labor, and small-scale work. Government schemes like MGNREGA also provide employment support in villages. However, the problem is that the work available in villages is often temporary, and the earnings are limited. This is why many people are forced to migrate to cities in search of better income.
The Reality of Labor Force Participation
The labor force participation rate indicates how many people are working or looking for work. According to current data, slightly more than half of the country's population is directly involved in the workforce. Men's participation is higher than women's, and the large number of women remaining outside the workforce continues to be a serious concern. An increase in women's participation could significantly strengthen the country's economic situation.
Growing Concerns Among Youth
Unemployment disproportionately affects young people. Not finding a job after completing their education puts them under immense mental stress. Youth unemployment is emerging as a major challenge, especially in cities. The demand for experience, limited job openings, and increasing competition force young people to wait for extended periods.

