Sheikh Sameer
Maqsood Ahmad, a 28-year-old from a small village in Anantnag, personifies the struggles faced by many general category aspirants in Jammu and Kashmir. Each morning, he embarks on a 40-kilometer journey to work as a laborer for a construction contractor in Anantnag. The only government bus in his area is his lifeline, helping him save Rs 30 daily on transportation costs. Yet, his once-bright dreams now lie in the shadows of a policy change that has left many like him questioning their future.
A Promising Start
Maqsood was not always a laborer. With a Master’s degree in Sociology, he once harbored dreams of securing a stable government job, a common aspiration in the region. For years, he prepared diligently for recruitment exams, often studying late into the night under the dim light of a kerosene lamp. His family, despite their financial struggles, supported him unwaveringly. His father, a laborer himself, invested all he could into Maqsood’s education, hoping his son would break the cycle of poverty that had gripped their family for generations.
Maqsood’s dedication was evident. He was a meticulous student, known in his village for his discipline and perseverance. He believed that education and hard work were his tickets to a better life, a belief reinforced by his teachers and mentors. However, the introduction of a new reservation policy in Jammu and Kashmir would soon shatter these beliefs.
The Policy Shift
The revised reservation policy in Jammu and Kashmir, intended to uplift underrepresented communities, has had unintended consequences for general category aspirants. The policy allocates a significant portion of job and educational opportunities to reserved categories, leaving the general category with just 40 percent of the available slots. This dramatic shift has left many aspirants feeling marginalized and disillusioned.
Maqsood is one of them. When asked why he quit preparing for the recruitment exams, his response is heartfelt and filled with frustration: “I come from a very downtrodden family with no source of income. My father used to labor and invest in my education, but he often remains sick now. With the general category left with just 40 percent, how can I expect to secure a job?”
His story is echoed by many others across Jammu and Kashmir. These aspirants, who once had high hopes for their futures, now find themselves grappling with the harsh realities imposed by the new policy.
The Daily Struggle
Maqsood’s daily routine reflects the shift from academic aspirations to survival. His day begins before dawn, as he prepares for the long journey to Anantnag. The bus ride, though a financial necessity, is arduous and time-consuming. Yet, it is a small price to pay compared to the dreams he has had to put on hold.
Once in Anantnag, Maqsood works long hours under the scorching sun, performing physically demanding tasks that leave him exhausted. His hands, once used to turning the pages of sociology textbooks, are now calloused from carrying bricks and mixing cement. The contrast between his current reality and his past aspirations is stark and disheartening.
Maqsood’s family depends on his meager earnings. His father, who once worked alongside him, is now too ill to labor. The burden of providing for the family has fallen squarely on Maqsood’s shoulders. Despite the physical and emotional toll, he continues to work tirelessly, driven by a sense of duty and the hope that his sacrifices will one day pay off.
A Widespread Issue
Maqsood’s plight is not unique. Across Jammu and Kashmir, many general category aspirants are facing similar challenges. The new reservation policy, while aiming to create a more equitable society, has inadvertently exacerbated the difficulties faced by these individuals.
24-year-old Ruqaya, from Larnoo is another victim of the policy shift. Ruqaya, a bright and ambitious woman, gra. She dreamed of becoming an JKPS officer, and contributing to the region’s development. However, the new reservation rules have made her prospects uncertain.
“Every day feels like a battle,” Ruqaya confides. “I studied hard, believing that merit would be recognized. But now, it feels like all my efforts will in vain. The competition is already tough, but with the reduced opportunities for the general category, it’s almost impossible to succeed.” She is now currently running a digital services shop outside Block Development office Larnoo
Ruqaya’s family, like Maqsood’s, has had to make sacrifices to support her education. Her father, a local vendor, and her mother, a homemaker, have done everything they can to help their daughter achieve her dreams. But the new policy has left them feeling helpless and frustrated.
The Psychological Impact
The psychological impact of the policy change on aspirants like Maqsood and Ruqaya is profound. The constant pressure and uncertainty have taken a toll on their mental health. Many report feeling anxious, stressed, and demotivated. The dreams that once fueled their hard work now seem distant and unattainable.
The situation is further exacerbated by the lack of adequate mental health support in the region. Many young people are left to cope with these challenges on their own, without the necessary resources or guidance.
The Broader Implications
The impact of the new reservation policy extends beyond individual aspirations. It has broader implications for the socio-economic development of Jammu and Kashmir. By limiting opportunities for a significant portion of the population, the policy risks creating a talent drain, where skilled and educated individuals are forced to leave the region in search of better prospects.
Seeking Solutions
While the intention behind the reservation policy is commendable, it is clear that its execution needs a more balanced approach. The government must recognize the plight of general category aspirants and explore ways to create more inclusive opportunities.
One potential solution is to introduce merit-based scholarships and job placements that do not solely rely on reservation categories. This approach would ensure that deserving candidates, regardless of their background, have a fair chance to succeed. Additionally, increasing the overall number of job and educational opportunities can alleviate the pressure on all categories.
There is also a need for better support systems for aspirants. This includes providing adequate mental health resources and career counseling services to help young people navigate the challenges they face. By addressing these issues, the government can create a more supportive environment that encourages all aspirants to pursue their goals.
Moving Forward
The dreams of Jammu and Kashmir’s youth are vital for the region’s progress. Policies should aim to create an environment where every aspirant, irrespective of their category, can pursue their goals without feeling marginalized. As the state continues to evolve, it is crucial to address the concerns of general category aspirants and ensure that their dedication and hard work are recognized and rewarded.
Maqsood Ahmad’s story is a powerful reminder of the need for a balanced approach. “We all have dreams, and we all want to contribute to our society,” he says. “It is disheartening to see our efforts go in vain due to policies that do not consider our struggles.” It is time for policymakers to listen to these voices and strike a balance that fosters growth, inclusivity, and equal opportunities for all.
By doing so, Jammu and Kashmir can harness the full potential of its youth and pave the way for a brighter, more prosperous future. The journey may be challenging, but with the right support and policies in place, the dreams of aspirants like Maqsood and Ruqaya can once again become a reality.
Rameez Makdoomi
The Kashmir Dialogues
