24.76 lakh including ‘overqualified’ graduates, PhD holders apply for peon posts in Rajasthan

In an alarming scenario of unprecedented job rush, over 24.76 lakh candidates, including PhD holders, MBA graduates, and civil services aspirants, have applied for 53,749 peon posts in Rajasthan.

According to data from the Rajasthan Staff Selection Board (RSMSSB), 24,76,383 candidates applied for a total of 53,749 posts by the Saturday deadline for the Class IV job, despite several being highly ‘overqualified’ for the post, as the minimum educational qualification required was matriculation.

Following the staggering number of applications, 46 applicants will now compete for every single post, a ratio underscoring the state’s job-market imbalance.

Educational Qualifications vs. Job Roles

Despite the peon role requiring only a Class 10 certificate, 60% of applicants hold graduate or postgraduate degrees, according to data shared by India Today.

In another highlight, the application portal crashed repeatedly due to high traffic, with 1.11 lakh forms submitted in the final five hours, translating to one every six seconds.

Additionally, technical glitches left thousands, including private-sector workers, unable to apply, pushing candidates to urge the RSMSSB to reopen the window.

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Past Trends Amplify Concerns

Earlier, 22 lakh applicants sought 2,399 forest guard posts. Similarly, 8–10 lakh candidates are expected for 500 bus conductor roles by April 2025. State data lists 18 lakh registered unemployed youths, though unofficial estimates peg the number closer to 35 lakh, signifying a massive demand for government posts and the Indian youth’s growing concerns regarding job security.

Exam Chaos Looms

Conducting tests for 24.76 lakh applicants poses logistical nightmares. According to public data, Rajasthan’s infrastructure can handle 3 lakh candidates per session, necessitating multiple shifts.

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Meanwhile, the rush for low-skilled roles signals systemic failures in matching education with employment, even as India strives ahead to create quality opportunities for its youth.