The Jammu and Kashmir Government disclosed in the Assembly that a staggering 3,61,146 educated unemployed youth are currently registered across the Union Territory as of September 2025. This official figure highlights the critical challenge of educated youth unemployment in the region.
Jammu & Kashmir, District-Wise Breakdown: Kashmir Division Has Higher Registrations
An analysis of the unemployment data shows a clear geographical distribution:
- Kashmir Division: Accounts for over 2.08 lakh (208,000) registrations.
- Jammu Division: Accounts for over 1.52 lakh (152,000) registrations.
The district-wise unemployment numbers reveal Srinagar as the district with the highest number of registrations at 43,826, followed closely by Anantnag (32,298) and Pulwama (28,671). On the other hand, districts like Kishtwar (8,870) and Reasi (12,376) reported the lowest numbers.
Gender Disparity in J&K Unemployment Figures
The data further breaks down the registrations by gender:
- Male Youth: 2,33,845
- Female Youth: 1,27,301
J&K Government’s Response: Mission Youth and Mission YUVA Aim for 4.25 Lakh Jobs
In response to this challenge, the Jammu and Kashmir Government outlined its comprehensive strategy to boost employment. The Employment Department, through Mission Youth and Mission YUVA, is actively working to generate 4.25 lakh job opportunities.
The key focus is on promoting self-employment and entrepreneurship by creating 1.37 lakh entrepreneurship units. This initiative is a cornerstone of the government’s plan to foster startup opportunities in Jammu Kashmir and drive skill development.
Engaging Youth Through Rozgar Melas and Career Counselling
To directly connect with the youth, the government is leveraging its district-level Employment and Counselling Centres. These centers are regularly conducting Career Melas and Rozgar Melas. These events are designed to:
- Engage directly with educated youth.
- Promote innovation and awareness about various livelihood opportunities.
- Provide essential career counselling.
“Our aim is to channelize the potential of educated youth into productive avenues, ensuring meaningful employment and promoting entrepreneurship across Jammu and Kashmir,” a government spokesperson stated.
This multi-pronged approach signifies a significant push by the UT administration to transform its unemployment challenge into an economic opportunity through job creation and entrepreneurial support.
