Odisha's Job Market Struggles: Over 4,000 Candidates for 102 Home Guard Positions

In Odisha, a staggering 4,040 candidates competed for only 102 Home Guard positions in Jharsuguda, revealing the state's escalating unemployment crisis. Many applicants, despite holding advanced degrees, are forced to apply for low-paying jobs due to a lack of opportunities. This situation reflects a broader trend across the state, where educated youth are struggling to find suitable employment. Experts are calling for urgent measures to address this issue, emphasizing the need for faster hiring processes and skill-based programs. The long lines at examination centers symbolize the growing desperation among job seekers in Odisha, as they face an increasingly challenging job market.

By Ambika Singh Dec 29, 2025, 19:59 IST

Odisha's Unemployment Crisis

A significant indicator of the escalating unemployment issue in Odisha was evident on Sunday, as over 4,000 individuals participated in an examination for merely 102 Home Guard positions in Jharsuguda district. This overwhelming turnout underscores the increasing desperation among the youth in the state, who are grappling with the challenge of finding stable job opportunities.

The written test took place at the Odisha Special Armed Police (OSAP) Battalion Ground, where a total of 4,040 candidates took part, according to official reports. This translates to nearly 40 applicants vying for each available position, despite these roles being temporary and offering modest pay.

Profile of the Candidates

A notable aspect of this recruitment drive was the educational background of the applicants. Although the minimum requirement for the Home Guard position was Class 5, the lines were filled with:

Graduates

Postgraduates

Engineering degree holders

Professionals with technical skills

Many candidates expressed that they felt compelled to apply for these positions due to a lack of job opportunities. The delays in government recruitment and diminishing prospects in the private sector have led highly qualified individuals to seek low-paying, entry-level jobs. Several applicants noted that this was not their preferred career path but rather a necessity for survival.

Job Seekers' Perspectives

Interviews with job seekers revealed a shared sense of urgency and frustration. They highlighted that the rising cost of living and the absence of a steady income have driven them to accept any available job, even those that do not match their qualifications.

One candidate shared his experience of being unemployed for months despite holding a technical degree. He stated, "We are not here because we want to be. We are here because we must earn something to support our families."

Widespread Employment Issues in Odisha

The situation in Jharsuguda is reflective of a broader trend across Odisha, with various districts experiencing similar employment challenges:

In Sambalpur, approximately 8,000 candidates applied for 187 Home Guard positions.

In Rourkela, applicants included B.Tech graduates and individuals with multiple master's degrees.

These figures indicate a troubling statewide pattern, where even well-educated individuals are forced to pursue low-level jobs due to a lack of better opportunities.

Call for Action from Experts

Economists and labor specialists caution that the current situation could deteriorate further without immediate intervention. They suggest:

Accelerating government hiring processes

Increasing job opportunities in both public and private sectors

Implementing skill-based employment programs that align with industry needs

Investing in industries capable of absorbing young talent on a large scale

Job seekers also believe that policymakers should prioritize practical solutions that ensure long-term employment stability rather than temporary fixes.

A Symbol of the Employment Crisis

The long queues outside examination venues serve as a stark reminder of the unemployment burden faced by countless families in Odisha. With youth constituting a significant portion of the state's population, the demand for jobs continues to far exceed the available supply.

If substantial measures are not implemented to bridge the employment gap, such scenarios—where educated individuals compete for positions intended for minimally qualified workers—are likely to become increasingly common.