The Impact of Graduate Population Growth on Unemployment: A Study on the Role of Higher Education and Government Policies in Nagaland

Abstract

Unemployment is a complex and persistent global challenge, but it is particularly acute in regions experiencing rapid population growth. When the number of people entering the workforce outpaces the rate of job creation, the result is a swelling pool of unemployed individuals. This mismatch is often intensified by a lack of proper vocational skills and a curriculum that doesn’t align with the demands of the modern labour market. Nagaland's unemployment rate for individuals aged 15 and above surged to 7.1% in 2023-24, with youth unemployment reaching 27.4 % and 39.6% in urban areas. The present study aims to understand the impact of graduate population growth on unemployment and the role of government policies and higher education. The findings demonstrate that the rising graduate population in Nagaland has directly intensified unemployment and job competition. Graduates strongly prefer government jobs, while many lack confidence in their higher education preparedness and remain only moderately aware of policies. Together, these factors reveal the urgent need for interventions in policy, education, and employment creation to reduce graduate unemployment.