A study on educated unemployed youth in rural and urban contexts: Challenges to human development in Haryana

Abstract

This study examines the challenges of educated unemployed youth in rural and urban contexts, situating these issues within the broader framework of human development in Haryana. Using Human Development Index (HDI) parameters—income, health, and education—it analyzes progress since the 1991 economic reforms while identifying persistent gaps. The findings reveal positive trends in life expectancy, mean and expected years of schooling, and overall HDI, reflecting improvements in healthcare, education, and economic well-being. However, the issue of educated unemployment highlights disparities that hinder inclusive growth and development. The study proposes targeted policy recommendations, including healthcare infrastructure enhancement, education sector reforms, skill development, economic diversification, and robust monitoring mechanisms, to address these challenges. By aligning these interventions with the unique needs of rural and urban youth, the study underscores the potential for Haryana to achieve sustained and equitable human development, fostering opportunities for educated youth to thrive and contribute to the state’s socio-economic progress.