The Cost of Surviving in Today's Economy

The biggest issue today isn't that people don't want to work—it's that good opportunities are becoming harder to find.

There are too few quality jobs, and many employers expect candidates to have years of experience while offering salaries that barely cover basic living expenses. Even when people have the right skills, they are often rejected because they don't have a specific degree like a B.Com or another formal qualification. Skills and experience should matter a wes much as certificates, especially when someone has proven they can do the job.

Many families depend on a single earning member. Surviving in India on ₹30,000–₹35,000 a month is becoming increasingly difficult with rising rents, food prices, transport costs, education expenses, and medical bills. Yet salaries in many sectors have not kept pace with inflation.

Work-life balance is another concern. Despite labour laws and discussions around employee welfare, many people still work 10–11 hours a day, often without proper overtime pay. In many organisations, weekends are no longer guaranteed, leaving employees exhausted and affecting their physical and mental health.

Office politics, favouritism, and job insecurity make the situation even worse. In some workplaces, people fear losing their jobs not because of poor performance, but because of internal politics or cost-cutting decisions. This creates constant stress and uncertainty.

Our education system also needs to evolve. It should prepare people with practical, job-ready skills instead of placing so much emphasis on degrees alone. A person's ability should not be overlooked simply because they lack a particular certificate.

These aren't just problems in one country—they are challenges seen in many parts of the world. But every hardworking person deserves fair pay, job security, respect, reasonable working hours, and opportunities based on talent rather than only on qualifications or connections.

It's time to build a system where people don't just work to survive—they have the chance to live with dignity.

I Anjali Shingade support today's youth.