Jharsuguda district is having a large number of industries and coalmines . Industries are said to have created job opportunities as done by Government in its different departments. In spite of this, the employment scanario in the district is very embarrassing. Local youths are deprived of jobs in these Government or private sectors.
The number of MCL's coal mines and big industrial houses like Vedanta,TRL Krosaki,OPGC, IOCL,NLC India and VSS airport are operating in the district, besides different Government educational institutions. But these have not been able to provide jobs to the unemployed. The hope of getting an employment through District Employment Exchange is very bleak. Locals are not given employment in private sectors even after rapid industrialisation of the district.
The companies continue to neglect local youths in getting jobs in their organisations. The management give jobs to the outside youths on the ground of possessing experience in technical skill. But those sacrificing their lands for these factories are left to be satisfied with some contractual jobs for a short period.
On expiry of this period they are left jobless again when factories are closed due to several reasons. In this situation, the youths are compelled to seek employment as bonded labourers in Goa, Bangalore, Delhi or far- off places.
During last two years, two youths of the district have died while working as bonded labourers in Goa. Youths with technical qualifications like diploma and degrees in technical institutions of the district also face similar problems to secure a job for them.
Efforts are made by the Government to make the youths skilled through various means by opening new department for skill development.
This department has initiated many drives to make the youths skilled in the State. But in reality the likelihood of getting any jobs by the youths is questionable.
Till December 31, 2018, 13,224 boys and 4,501 girls were registered in Jharsuguda district employment exchange. This year, only 17 persons ( 13 in State Government, 1 in Central Government and 2 in semi Government ) have got jobs. Likewise, till June last a total 17, 467 youths including 12,932 boys and 4,535 girls are registered in employment exchange which is 258 less than last year.
This year only two persons got jobs in State Government which is a matter of concern. Many youths registered in employment exchange due to overage are managing their livelihood by small or big business.
When contacted, District Employment Officer Sanjurani Sahoo said that many youths have got jobs and many have not turned up for renewal of registration. Although the Government is giving free trainings and jobs, the youths do not show interest, she added.