Nagaland Faces Employment Challenge Amidst High Literacy Rates

Kohima, Nagaland – September 20, 2025 Despite boasting a high literacy rate, Nagaland is grappling with a significant employment challenge, with over 71,000 registered unemployed individuals in the state. A recent report has highlighted that a majority of these individuals lack essential technological skills, a gap that is increasingly becoming a barrier to employment in the modern job market. The report, compiled by the Nagaland State Employment and Skill Development Department, reveals that approximately 60% of the unemployed population lacks proficiency in basic digital tools and technologies. This deficiency is particularly concerning as industries across the state and the broader Northeast region are increasingly seeking employees with technological competencies. Sethrongkyu Sangtam, a prominent educationist and one of the authors of the report, emphasized the urgency of addressing this skills gap. "While Nagaland has made commendable strides in literacy, the absence of technical skills among the youth is hindering their employability. To bridge this divide, it's imperative to integrate vocational training and digital literacy programs into our educational framework," Sangtam stated during the report's release event in Kohima. The report also indicates that the unemployment rate in Nagaland stands at 16.07%, significantly higher than the national average. This disparity underscores the pressing need for targeted interventions to enhance the employability of the state's youth. In response to these findings, the Nagaland government is planning to launch a series of initiatives aimed at upskilling and reskilling the workforce. These initiatives include: Establishment of Digital Literacy Centers: To provide training in basic computer skills and internet usage, ensuring that individuals can navigate the digital landscape effectively. Vocational Training Programs: Focused on sectors such as information technology, electronics, mechanical engineering, and agriculture, to equip individuals with industry-relevant skills. Partnerships with Private Sector: Collaborating with local businesses and industries to design training modules that align with market demands and employment opportunities. Kekhrielhoulie Yhome, the School Education Advisor, acknowledged the challenges posed by the current employment scenario. "The government is committed to creating an ecosystem where education and skill development go hand in hand. Our focus will be on making our youth job-ready and adaptable to the evolving job market," Yhome affirmed. Furthermore, the report highlights the importance of entrepreneurship as a viable career path. Encouraging self-employment and supporting small-scale industries can play a pivotal role in reducing unemployment rates. The government is considering the introduction of entrepreneurship development programs to foster innovation and self-reliance among the youth. As Nagaland continues to navigate these challenges, the emphasis on education, skill development, and entrepreneurship is seen as crucial steps towards building a resilient and employable workforce. The success of these initiatives will depend on collaborative efforts between the government, educational institutions, industry stakeholders, and the community at large.