Onlykashmir.in News Desk
Awami Itihaad Party (AIP) Chief Spokesperson Inam Un Nabi has criticised the Omar Abdullah-led government over the youth unemployment rate in Jammu and Kashmir, saying the latest Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS) figures raise serious questions about its ability to address the aspirations of the younger generation.
Referring to the reported unemployment rate of 26.2 per cent among youth aged 15 to 29 years, against a national average of 15.3 per cent, Inam said the figures should compel the government to introspect and explain why the Union Territory continues to face such a difficult situation.
He questioned the fate of the National Conference’s promise of one lakh jobs, saying electoral commitments must be judged by implementation rather than political speeches. “The government cannot claim success merely by making announcements. Young people have waited long enough for a credible change in their circumstances. The Chief Minister must explain what has actually been achieved against the one lakh jobs promise,” he said.
Inam said the situation calls for a comprehensive response, including filling vacant government posts, establishing a transparent recruitment calendar and creating an environment in which private investment, local businesses and entrepreneurship can generate sustainable opportunities.
The government, he added, must present a concrete, time-bound action plan rather than rely on routine assurances. “An entire generation is looking towards the government for direction and opportunity. Their aspirations deserve seriousness, not political excuses,” he said.
The jobs promise has been raised repeatedly in recent weeks. The one lakh jobs commitment was among the pledges that MP Aga Syed Ruhullah Mehdi listed when he quit the National Conference earlier this month, and aspirants have complained about delays at the Public Service Commission, which has been working without a regular Chairman since July. The NC has defended its record, and the government has pointed to the limitations imposed by the prevailing constitutional and administrative arrangements.
On the same day, the Chief Minister told graduates at the first convocation of Cluster University of Jammu to become job creators and entrepreneurs, stressing a start-up ecosystem, simpler clearances and better access to credit. Whether that approach will help reduce unemployment will depend on how quickly the measures are put into effect.
The PLFS figures cited by the AIP are taken from the survey, and the statement did not give the reference period. The government’s response to the AIP’s criticism was not available in the information provided.
