Low Wages Deter Job Seekers Despite Thousands of Vacancies at Govt Job Fairs in Pune
Pune, 16th May 2025: Despite over 6,000 openings across five state-organized job fairs in Pune this year, only 29 candidates secured employment — a stark indicator of job seekers’ reluctance to accept low-paying roles.
The job fairs, conducted by the Maharashtra government’s Skill Development Department, attracted 78 companies offering 6,219 vacancies. However, just 1,035 job seekers showed up for interviews, and fewer than 30 were selected. Officials attributed the poor turnout and selection numbers to the unattractive compensation packages rather than a lack of skilled applicants.
“Most openings were for trainee roles under apprenticeship schemes. These jobs come with short-term 11-month contracts, after which candidates must reapply, regardless of their performance,” said a career trainer who worked with participants.
Starting salaries ranged from ₹8,000 to ₹10,000 per month — a major deterrent for freshers looking to begin their careers. Additionally, the majority of companies were located in industrial hubs like Chakan, Bhosari, and Pimpri-Chinchwad, with few offering transport facilities. Daily commutes to these areas proved both costly and time-consuming, further discouraging potential hires.
“Many jobseekers simply can’t justify the time, effort, and travel costs for such low pay. It’s not that they aren’t willing to work — it’s that the offer doesn’t match their basic living needs,” the trainer added.
Labour experts also flagged another concern: several companies were reportedly working through third-party contractors who hired workers temporarily and terminated them after contracts ended, with no job security or long-term growth prospects.
