Work

Degrees with Dividends: Education and Employment in Punjab’s Labour Market

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Subject and Purpose This paper examines employment and income trends in Punjab, with a focus on youth, and level of education. It aims to identify structural labour market gaps and recommend targeted policies for inclusive, sustainable employment. Materials and Methods This study is based on unit-level data from the Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS) for the years 2017-18 to 2023-24. Employment indicators and average wage estimates were calculated using Stata 17 statistical software to ensure precise, consistent, and policy-relevant analysis. Results The analysis reveals persistent youth unemployment, low wage returns despite rising education, and a labour market dominated by informal and low-quality jobs in Punjab. While some employment indicators have improved post-pandemic, structural gaps remain in job creation and income mobility. Conclusions Punjab’s labour market shows modest recovery but remains constrained by high youth unemployment, low wage returns, and structural informality, demanding urgent policy intervention.

Source: Economic and Regional Studies / Studia Ekonomiczne i Regionalne

DOI: 10.2478/ers-2025-0022

Authors: Babloo Jakhar, Somnath Pruthi, Aishwarya Soni, Poonam, Aarti Sharma

Institutions: Central University of Odisha, Guru Jambheshwar University of Science and Technology, Central University of Rajasthan, Bundelkhand University, Chandigarh University

Language: English

Topic: Education and Labor Relations

Subfield: Political Science and International Relations

Field: Social Sciences

Domain: Social Sciences

SDGs: Decent work and economic growth, No poverty, Reduced inequalities, Quality education

Open Access status: diamond

OpenAlex ID: W7116101385