Beyond Government Jobs: Shifting Mindsets to Tackle Unemployment in Nagaland

Hinoto Chophy 
CEO & Director, Gogivers Services Private Limited 

Unemployment remains a pressing issue in Nagaland. Every year, thousands of educated youths complete their studies with the hope of landing a secure job—preferably a government one. However, the harsh reality is that there simply aren’t enough vacancies in the government sector to absorb them all. What’s more concerning is not just the scarcity of jobs, but the collective mindset that narrows down what qualifies as a “good opportunity.” 

As a job consultancy firm based in Dimapur, we at Gogivers Recruitment Agency interact with hundreds of job seekers across Nagaland. What we observe is both hopeful and heart-breaking. Many young people possess degrees, potential, and energy—but their job search begins and ends with one goal: a government job. While public service is a noble ambition, it must not be the only path considered.

The Mentality Barrier 
One of the most significant hurdles we face as consultants is not just the lack of job openings, but the reluctance of candidates to embrace alternative career paths. Positions in private companies, sales, hospitality, customer service, digital marketing, or even skill-based sectors like tailoring, driving, baking, and health care are often seen as “second class” or beneath one’s qualification. 

This rigid mindset traps many youths in years of waiting—waiting for government exam results, waiting for the next recruitment notification, waiting without income, growth, or real-world experience. In the meantime, valuable time is lost that could have been used to gain skills, explore startups, or build careers in emerging sectors.

Opportunities Are Evolving—So Must We 
The job market is changing fast. With the rise of technology, e-commerce, remote work, and skill-based freelancing, the definition of a successful career has evolved. But Nagaland’s youth need stronger exposure and encouragement to explore these new avenues. 

The good news? Opportunities are there. Startups, NGOs, hotels, companies within Nagaland, and even online platforms are constantly looking for enthusiastic employees. But they need flexibility, willingness to learn, and a mindset that values growth over status.

The Role of Job Consultancies 
As a consultancy, our mission goes beyond placements. We aim to guide youth to see the bigger picture—whether it's learning a trade, gaining real-world experience through internships, or being open to private and semi-government roles. We have helped candidates find work in hospitals, retail chains, logistics firms, and online support roles—jobs they initially rejected, but later appreciated for the experience and income they provided.

What Needs to Change? 
•     Families must support diverse career paths. Parents and elders need to understand that a stable future doesn’t always begin with a government badge. 

•    Youth must stay open-minded. Every job is a stepping stone; no experience is wasted if one is learning and earning. 

•     More skill development programs are needed. Technical and soft skill training must become more accessible across districts. 

•     Career counselling should be normalized. Many candidates simply don’t know what options exist outside of the civil service.

Conclusion 
Unemployment in Nagaland is not just an economic issue—it’s a mindset issue. If we shift our perception of work and broaden our horizons, we can unlock many doors that already exist around us. At Gogivers Recruitment Agency, we believe that every young person deserves a chance—not just to work, but to grow, adapt, and lead in this ever-changing job landscape. 
Let’s stop waiting, and start building careers—today. 
 



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