On demands for reservation – Maratha reservation: Why everyone wants a ‘sarkari naukri’

Source: The post is on the demands for reservations is based on the article “Maratha reservation: Why everyone wants a ‘sarkari naukri’ in New India” published in “Indian Express” on 2^nd November 2023.

UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper 3 Indian Economy – Issues relating to Employment.
GS Paper 2 Social Justice – Mechanisms, laws, institutions and Bodies constituted for the protection and betterment of these vulnerable sections.

News: The article discusses three different groups in India: Yadav men demanding an Ahir regiment, skill development trainees in Ranchi wanting government jobs, and Maratha protestors seeking reservations. All these groups, despite living in a time of increasing private enterprise, are looking towards the state for social and economic mobility. The state appears more powerful and secure, especially in contrast to the precarious private sector.

Why do a very large number of people desire state jobs in India?

Perceived Power of the State: The state is seen as more powerful than ever. People feel that being within the state system offers protection against arbitrary actions.

Job Security, Stability and Respect: Government jobs offer a higher standard of “respectability”, Stability and security compared to private sector jobs.

Economic and Social mobility: Even with the rise of private enterprise, the state’s role in economic and social mobility remains attractive, making government jobs more desirable.

Market Regulation: The state has been lax in regulating the market, leading to potential vulnerabilities for those in private jobs. The weakening of labour laws has also tilted preference towards state jobs.

How is the market failing the people?

Lack of Regulation: The state hasn’t adequately regulated the market, leaving many exposed to its vulnerabilities. Persistent efforts to dilution of labor laws have left workers without protection. This shows the state siding with private employers over individual workers’ needs.

Lack of Trust in the Private Sector: Despite the push for private enterprise, many see state jobs as more desirable due to their security and respectability. This suggests a lack of trust in the private sector’s ability to provide stable employment.

Unlimited Market Power: The market’s unchecked power determines many aspects of life, yet without the necessary protections, it fails to ensure the well-being of all its participants.

Question for practice:

Lack of market regulation and the dilution of labor laws in India contribute to the preference for state employment over private sector jobs. Discuss.