Satnam Singh is visiting the village gurudwara to thank God for his Study Visa to Canada. “Where are the jobs in Punjab, for that matter anywhere in the country? Jobs are handful and there sifarish and whatever is left goes to reservation.”
Apart from paucity of jobs, students of state seem to be victims of lack of quality higher education. Cost of higher education, especially medical study is exorbitant which can be afforded only by the privileged few. Others look toward West, especially Canada to fulfil their dreams. But here to, due to inadequate quality of education and language constraints end up being drivers, delivery boys or dishwashers.
A survey by Centre for Studying Developing Societies found 78% respondents in Punjab felt state had “ bad” jobs compared to national average of 41%.
Once known for its sporting culture and producing highest number of medal winners, Punjab is fast losing ground in nurturing young talent. In recent Birmingham Commonwealth games, Punjab athletes did not win even a single gold medal. The best by a Punjab athlete was a silver. It’s neighbouring state, Haryana won 19 gold medals, highest by any state. Deplorable sports infrastructure in the state and inadequate support by state government are the main reasons for this decline. Recently concluded Khelo India medals tally speaks speaks it loud and clear with, Punjab placed at disappointing rank 9.