Job Opportunities and Labour Market Participation: A Case Study of Jammu City, India

Abstract

The study explores the scope of job opportunities and labour market participation of youth in Jammu City, India. In recent years, India has observed significant changes in its economic conditions and the study provides an understanding of different aspects of job opportunities and labour market participation at the regional level and helps in framing informed policy decisions. The study uses a mixed-method approach, combining quantitative data analysis to find the relationship between the variables and qualitative interviews with local respondents. Quantitative analysis examines employment trends in various occupational sectors and the impact of education and gender on labour market participation. Qualitative interviews provide insights into the challenges and opportunities faced by respondents for labour market participation in Jammu City. The paper discusses educational attainment, the relationship between labour market participation and insufficient job opportunities, transition patterns, educational and working status. The study reveals that Jammu City's labour market is diverse, in both general and vocational educational respondents and factors such as education, job opportunities, gender and geographic location influence labour market participation. Moreover, the study reveals large participation of respondents in informal jobs and self-employment due to the lack of government jobs and the worse political situation of the state. The study draws implications for policymakers to promote inclusive economic growth and improve labour market outcomes in this region. Furthermore, research and policy measures also address the complexities of job opportunities and labour market participation in Jammu City which ultimately enhances the overall socio-economic well-being of the study area.