Literacy Without Jobs Paradox in Nagaland

It is ironic that Nagaland experiences high unemployment despite an increase in literacy rates. As per the Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS) 2023-24 report, the state’s literacy rate (for ages 7+) stands at 95.7%, only behind Mizoram with 98.2% and Lakshadweep with 97.3%, against the national average of 80.9%. This is a big leap from the 79.55% literacy rate as per the 2011 Census, thanks to growing awareness among the general populace to educate their children and the urge to break free from the cycle of poverty. The literacy report published by the National Statistical Office demonstrates how targeted local policies can transform the education sector. This data also serves as an indicator of employment and unemployment. Ideally, a society with a high literacy rate should have high employment, as education empowers and equips individuals with the required skills to excel in the fields of their expertise and thus enjoy better prospects in the job market as well as in entrepreneurial ventures. But for Nagaland, this is not the case. As per the findings of the Survey Report on Employment, Unemployment, Skill and Migration in Nagaland 2025, an initiative by the Directorate of Economics and Statistics, the state’s unemployment rate stands at 16.07%. This is quite high for the country’s third-most literate state. While a majority 59% didn’t specify the reason for unemployment, 8% attributed it to lack of opportunities in their area, and none cited “shutdown of production units”, aptly reflecting the absence of industries in the state.

Thousands of students graduate from educational institutions both within the state and beyond each year. However, the job market is unable to absorb them, as employment in the government sector has reached saturation, and opportunities in the private sector are negligible in the state, leaving the educated youth high and dry. It comes as no surprise as the state is plagued by economic stagnation and a lack of industrial growth, leading to inevitable unemployment. Moreover, the education system is outdated and does not seem to align with the evolving global job market. Overemphasis on degrees, rather than on critical thinking and problem-solving skills, is one reason why many fresh graduates struggle to find employment or dare to tread entrepreneurial journey. In short, the prevalence of unemployment despite high literacy is a stark reminder that education alone is not enough and that academic qualifications should be aligned with market requirements. A multi-dimensional approach from education reform to promotion of vocational and technical training to change of social mindset on education is required to bridge the existing gap. The government, educational institutions, and society should collaborate to make literacy a tool for empowerment and employment.