# NEET anger rooted in joblessness, not just exam leaks

2026-08-07T20:03:26+00:00 | Governance | Indian Opinion Desk

Corroboration: 1 independent outlet

Analysis in Economic Times and National Herald argues that recent student protests over the NEET paper leak reflect deep job anxiety, not just exam mismanagement. Youth unemployment stands at 9.9 per cent in 2025, and graduate entry-level salaries have fallen in real terms since 2011. Millions spend years in the ‘waiting room’ of competitive exams because government jobs offer rare security. Meanwhile, India Inc has stayed silent despite having benefited from precarious gig work and low-cost internships. Platform workers face rigid app controls, while companies avoid formal employment. The National Herald notes agriculture still employs 46 per cent of workers though it generates only a sixth of output.

## Coverage

- economictimes.indiatimes.com <https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/opinion/et-commentary/india-incs-silence-on-cjp-protests-raises-uncomfortable-questions/articleshow/133039696.cms>
- nationalheraldindia.com <https://www.nationalheraldindia.com/opinion/plenty-of-work-but-far-fewer-jobs-india-gig-economy-platform-workers>

Tags: corporate silence, Gen Z, gig economy, India Inc, NEET protests, youth unemployment
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