A generation's cry for change: Bihar's youth are not buying into empty job promises.
In the heart of Bihar, the bylanes of Mahendru, Patna, buzz with a different kind of energy. Coaching centers here are a testament to the aspirations of the state's youth, who dream of government jobs. But, as the political heat rises, the promises of employment are falling flat.
Five years ago, jobs were a central issue in Bihar's polls. Tejashwi Yadav's pledge of 10 lakh government jobs resonated with the youth, prompting the NDA to counter with a promise of 20 lakh jobs. However, today, despite these grand announcements, Bihar's Gen Z remains unmoved.
But here's where it gets controversial...
Over the past five years, Bihar has witnessed student protests, recruitment examination cancellations, paper leaks, and clashes with the police. The youth's simmering anger is a warning sign for any future government.
This time around, Tejashwi Yadav promises one government job per family, while the NDA pledges an ambitious 2 crore jobs and greater entrepreneurship through new investments. Yet, the youth are skeptical and reluctant to believe these promises.
And this is the part most people miss...
Arun Gupta, a B.Tech graduate from MIT Muzaffarpur, echoes the sentiments of many. He could have secured a private sector job outside Bihar, but he chose to stay and pursue a government teaching position. "Government jobs are secure," he says. Gupta, a resident of Siwan, is preparing for the Teacher Recruitment Examination, but the process has been delayed, leaving him and others frustrated.
His friend, Manish Yadav, who traveled to Patna for the Bihar Secondary Teacher Eligibility Test, shares a similar view. He questions the hollow promises, wondering what the candidates have done in the past five years to improve employment opportunities.
Abhishek Kumar, preparing for the BPSC exam, is skeptical of the "jumla" (empty promises) made by all parties. He challenges Tejashwi Yadav's promise of one government job per family, questioning the criteria and the lack of consideration for the low literacy rates among certain communities.
Vikas Kumar, an Uber Bike driver from Khagaria, highlights the need for timely and leak-proof examinations. He believes government jobs are the only viable option for those from less privileged backgrounds.
A contrasting perspective...
In contrast, Sonam Kumari, a BPSC examinee from Muzaffarpur, praises the domicile policy and women's reservation, crediting Nitish Kumar for his efforts to empower women. However, her male counterpart, Ajeet Kumar, feels left out, questioning what has been done for young men.
So, what's the verdict?
The message from Bihar's Gen Z is clear: they want more than just promises. They demand action, transparency, and a government that delivers on its commitments. With 51% of voters aged 20-40, their voices cannot be ignored.
Are these promises enough to win over the youth of Bihar? Or is it time for a new approach to address the employment crisis? The answers lie in the upcoming elections, but one thing is certain: Bihar's youth are ready for change.
