New Delhi: Despite government assertions of robust economic growth, a striking number of Indians continue to seek stability through government employment, with millions applying for federal positions over recent years.

According to Kashmir Media Service, recent statistics reveal that from 2014 to 2022, over 220 million applications were submitted for federal jobs, yet only 722,000 individuals were selected. This high demand highlights the perceived security and benefits associated with government positions.

Sunil Kumar, a 30-year-old aspiring for a government job, has devoted nearly a decade to preparing for various examinations. “There is more security in government jobs. If it happens, the struggle of ten years will be worth it,” he commented, reflecting a common sentiment among many applicants.

The competition for these roles has also spurred the growth of a vast coaching industry, which provides training and preparation for government job exams. As the government faces increasing pressure to fill nearly 6 million vacant positions, the reliance on these jobs underscores ongoing cultural and economic concerns within the country.

Experts, such as Rituparna Chakraborty of TeamLease Services, note that the preference for government jobs over private sector opportunities is indicative of broader anxieties about job security and stability, which are deeply valued in Indian society.