SRINAGAR: In Kashmir, a region grappling with high unemployment, many young people, including those with advanced degrees, are turning to unconventional jobs like driving E-rickshaws.
Although this choice is largely motivated by necessity, it has also come to symbolise adaptability in the face of limited opportunities.
"Jobs in Kashmir are scarce because the government sector is the only option, and even there, opportunities are minimal. This forces people to consider jobs like driving an E-rickshaw or running a stall," says Faisal Ahmad, an unemployed graduate who highlights the harsh reality faced by many.
The Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation recently released the Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS) for July-September 2024, revealing alarming unemployment rates. The data highlights that among urban job seekers aged 15 to 29, Jammu & Kashmir recorded the highest unemployment rate at 32%.
For years, government jobs were viewed as the only stable career option in Kashmir. However, stagnation in this sector has left thousands unemployed. Limited private-sector growth and inadequate technical training programs have left many young graduates struggling to find jobs.
E-rickshaws as a Lifeline
Amidst this distressing situation, E-rickshaws or electronic rickshaws, have become an unexpected lifeline. These vehicles are affordable and easy to operate, enabling young people to earn a living while overcoming societal stigma.
The rise of E-rickshaws has been supported by dealers like Shahid Ashraf, who has been in the business for four years. "In the beginning, people were not aware of E-rickshaws, but in the last three years, more and more people have started preferring them," he says.
Shahid adds, "The main reason is affordability, and the dealers provide a lot of support, including assistance with bank financing. Currently, there are around 4,000 to 5,000 registered E-rickshaws across Kashmir, with 500 registered through my firm."
Salim Manzoor, a 22-year-old undergraduate student, has been driving an E-rickshaw for the past six months. "I decided to take on some work during my free time, so I started driving the E-rickshaw. I work during the day and study for two to three hours in the evening," says Salim.
"If you remain idle for too long, your mind can wander, and you might find yourself in undesirable situations. It’s better to have a job. This way, I can earn a decent income to pay my tuition fees and cover my expenses."
Salim’s story highlights the significant challenges faced by Kashmir’s youth, particularly a shortage of conventional job opportunities that is prompting many to reconsider their career aspirations.
For others, like 20-year-old Haseeb Lone, E-rickshaws provide an essential means of financial support. "For many young people in Kashmir, the lack of job opportunities and increasing financial pressure often compel them to take on side jobs. After completing my college work, I drive an E-rickshaw part-time to help cover my expenses," he explains.
Financial Stability Versus Stigma
However, many educated young people struggling to find jobs hesitate to associate themselves with the E-rickshaw.
Zaid Ali, a Multimedia graduate, has faced months of frustration in his job hunt, symbolic of the struggles faced by many young Kashmiris.
"There is a lack of opportunity in my field, along with tough competition and limited networking options," he says. "I’ve considered part-time work, such as freelancing, but I can’t accept unrelated jobs, like driving an E-rickshaw, as they do not align with my skills."
Zaid’s story highlights the emotional and financial impact that unemployment has on families. He explains, "The lack of jobs has caused financial stress and emotional strain on my family. While there are some efforts to tackle unemployment, they appear to be insufficient. We need more targeted programs, such as skill-building workshops, job fairs, and subsidies for creative startups."
Parents are understandably worried about their children's futures.
Shafeeqa Begum, a mother of two, expresses her concerns about her sons - both have advanced degrees but remain unemployed.
"I always believed that education was the key to securing a job. My sons studied hard, yet they still haven't found any employment," she remorsefully says.
"Unemployment is one of the main reasons why today's youth are turning to drugs. E-rickshaws have offered some job opportunities, but many young people are reluctant to take such work. Even my son has said, 'What is the point of getting such a high degree if I have to drive an auto-rickshaw?'"
The stigma surrounding unconventional jobs often discourages young people from pursuing them.
Bilal Lone, a father, believes that societal attitudes need to change. "It pains me to see so many young people unemployed. If jobs aren’t available, the government should prioritize teaching students’ technical skills or trades," he says.
Both Haseeb and Salim faced criticism from their friends and society for the stigma attached to driving an E-rickshaw; however, this did not discourage them.
Haseeb Lone says, "Many people spoke negatively about me driving an E-rickshaw, including some of my classmates. However, I used their comments as motivation to persevere. In a region where unemployment is high and opportunities are limited, everyone must engage in positive activities instead of getting involved in negative ones."
Salim Manzoor chips in, "In the beginning, I faced many challenges. My friends told me that if I drove an E-rickshaw, people would not view me the same way. However, I ignored their comments. At least, it provides a steady income.
Beyond Conventional Jobs
"Education is not solely about obtaining a job, as noted poet and social activist Zareef Ahmad Zareef emphasizes the importance of broader solutions.
He notes that although there are many talented students who graduate from universities and colleges, there are not enough government job opportunities in Kashmir. In Kashmir, societal factors like the ongoing conflict and reservation policies further limit job opportunities, he points out.
He states, "Education enhances our sensibility and helps us become more aware individuals. In addition to education, we need skill development and technical training programs that empower young people to start their own businesses and promote industrial growth."
Sharing an anecdote, he says during his visit to Bangalore, he saw a young, educated rickshaw driver reading an English newspaper. “In Southern India, people are well-educated but are not hesitant to work in diverse fields,” he says, adding that there is need to emulate such examples.
Mushtaq Pahalgami, a prominent activist and environmentalist, urges the youth of Kashmir to explore a variety of employment opportunities beyond e-rickshaws.
“The e-rickshaws,” he points out, “are cost-efficient and eco-friendly but not everyone can or should invest in e-rickshaws," he states. "Our young generation often hesitates to pursue skilled blue-collar work after completing their education. Instead, many waste valuable time chasing government jobs rather than engaging in productive endeavours."
Pahalgami stressed that students should prioritize their studies unless they face financial constraints that require part-time work. “In such situations, young people should explore traditional sectors like Kashmiri arts, handicrafts, and horticulture which possess untapped potential for economic growth,” he says.
He laments that many skilled jobs, such as plumbing and carpentry, are now dominated by non-locals, as local youth hesitate to pursue such work after graduating. The youth need to be more open to diverse skills and innovation, he says.
Have you liked the news article?