20th November 2024: The unemployment rate in Odisha’s urban areas has seen a notable rise, now standing at 10.6%, which is higher than the national average of 6.4%. According to the recent quarterly report by the National Sample Survey Organization (NSSO), both male and female unemployment figures have increased compared to the previous year.
Between July and September of this year, the unemployment rate for individuals aged 15 years and above in Odisha’s urban areas rose from 8.8% to 10.6%. Specifically, the unemployment rate for men almost doubled, jumping from 4.8% to 9.6%, while the rate for women increased from 9% to 13%.
This increase in urban unemployment underscores a significant challenge for the state’s labor market, with many struggling to secure stable jobs. Despite this, there is some positive news: the state’s overall labor force participation rate has increased, with 50.4% of individuals over the age of 15 now actively seeking employment, up from 49.3% last year.
The rising unemployment rate in Odisha’s cities highlights the need for stronger policies focused on job creation, skill development, and industry growth. The state government continues to prioritize industrial growth and infrastructure investment as key drivers of employment opportunities, especially for women and youth.
Nationally, the unemployment rate in urban areas also remains higher than in rural regions, with the rate recorded at 6.6% for the April-June period of this year. Although this shows slight improvement from the previous year, the gap between urban and rural unemployment rates remains a significant concern.
As Odisha continues to attract investment and expand its economy, addressing these employment challenges will be crucial for ensuring sustainable growth and providing job opportunities for all citizens.
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