Youth unemployment in Karnataka

Abstract

This paper deals with the various dimensions of youth unemployment in Karnataka. It finds that districts with marginal unemployment rates are those with low growth-rates, low human development and low gender development. Many districts have experienced expansion in employment in the primary sector followed by negative growth in labour productivity. This indicates a lack of gainful employment. Unemployment among educated youth is increasing rapidly. The rapid growth of professional colleges in recent years has increased the rate of unemployment among professional graduates also. The employment generation programmes for the youth in the state are inadequate, non-viable and piecemeal. The programmes like TRYSEM, PMRY and SEEUY have not generated adequate self-employment due to inadequate financial assistance and selection of non-viable enterprises. An integrated employment policy is essential to tackle the youth unemployment in the state. This should be accompanied by manpower planning and a suitable population policy.