India's Congress Vows 'First Job' for All Graduates if Voted Into Power

India's Congress, anticipating voter concerns about high unemployment, particularly among well-educated youth, pledges to secure paid apprenticeships for every graduate under 25 if victorious in the upcoming elections. Despite polls predicting another setback for the long-dominant party, Congress seeks to address unemployment issues.

Former party chief Rahul Gandhi, rallying support through a nationwide march, unveiled the ambitious plan on social media. Promising a 'first job' with an annual income of Rs 1 lakh ($1,209), Gandhi declared this initiative as a lasting solution to the unemployment crisis. The proposed 'Right to Apprentice Act' aims to guarantee a one-year apprenticeship in either government or private institutions, with the prospect of continuing in the job.

Gandhi believes this revolutionary scheme will bridge the skill gap between industry requirements and India's workforce, transforming both Indian industries and the destiny of its youth. The move responds to a concerning unemployment rate of 42.3% among graduates under 25, as reported by Azim Premji University, contrasting sharply with less than 5% for those aged 35 and above. India's overall unemployment rate rose to 8% in February from 6.8% in January.

Economists and business leaders have long criticized the employability of young graduates in India due to insufficient skills. A recent study revealed that less than half of the country's young graduates applying for jobs meet the required standards. As the election season unfolds, Congress positions its apprenticeship guarantee as a transformative solution to these pressing challenges

 भारत की कांग्रेस ने सत्ता में आने पर सभी स्नातकों को 'पहली नौकरी' देने का संकल्प लिया।.