Jharkhand is rich in natural resources, but thousands of its young people are spending years preparing for government jobs. In Ranchi, many cram into small rooms to study, sometimes five to a room. Some have been waiting a decade for an exam, while others remain unemployed despite earning gold medals.

For these young people, a government job is often seen as the most reliable path to a better life. But delayed exams, paper leaks and alleged irregularities in recruitment have made that path even harder. Some exams have remained pending for years, while results for others take months or even longer.

Many students describe this as an “exam trap” – a cycle in which their years, opportunities and even their personal lives are put on hold while they wait for a chance at employment.

Why are Jharkhand’s young people so dependent on government jobs? Are there enough private-sector and other employment opportunities for them? And what happens when years of preparation are undone by delayed exams, paper leaks or a recruitment process mired in controversy?

Watch this report for the stories of young Jharkhandis who have put their education, earnings, relationships and, in some cases, their lives on hold while waiting for a job.

Your support keeps news free. Get a 6-month subscription at Rs 1947. Or gift it to your friends or relatives.