SRINAGAR: The Jammu and Kashmir government has reported that over 9.58 lakh employment and livelihood opportunities have been created in the last four years through various self-employment schemes. Initiatives such as Mumkin, Tejaswini, the Prime Minister’s Employment Generation Programme (PMEGP), and the Rural Employment Generation Programme (REGP) have played a key role in this effort.
Official data reveals that 2,99,266 self-employment and livelihood opportunities were generated in 2021-22, followed by 2,83,664 in 2022-23, 2,38,675 in 2023-24, and 1,36,165 up to January 2025.
In addition to self-employment schemes, private-sector employment in Jammu and Kashmir has grown, particularly in the industrial sector. Employment generation in industries, along with initiatives under PMEGP and REGP, resulted in 15,719 jobs in 2022-23 and 29,969 jobs in 2023-24, bringing the total to 45,688. This growth has been attributed to government efforts to boost investment, encourage entrepreneurship, and facilitate ease of doing business in the region.
Government recruitment through the Jammu and Kashmir Public Service Commission (JKPSC) and the Jammu and Kashmir Services Selection Board (JKSSB) has also contributed to employment generation. Over the past two years, 11,526 individuals have been recruited through these agencies. In 2023, JKPSC recruited 1,141 candidates, while JKSSB made 3,695 appointments. In 2024, the figures stood at 1,034 for JKPSC and 5,656 for JKSSB, bringing the total recruitments to 2,175 through JKPSC and 9,351 through JKSSB.
Meanwhile, 49,354 graduates have passed out from institutions in Jammu and Kashmir over the last two years, with 25,428 graduates in 2023 and 23,926 in 2024. While employment opportunities have expanded across different sectors, the government has stated that continued efforts are being made to enhance job creation, particularly for the youth. Various skill development programmes, financial assistance schemes, and investment-friendly policies are being implemented to improve employability and create sustainable livelihood options in the region.
