How to Get a Government Job After Graduation in India

According to Education Bhaskar, the Indian government remains one of the largest employers in 2024, offering financial stability, medical and retirement benefits, and more. Given these advantages, it is not surprising that every year thousands of students strive to start a career in the public sector, which causes high competition for the position. However, you should not rush into this competition thoughtlessly, as you risk either failing or occupying a post that does not meet your expectations. In both cases, it can lead to frustration. Instead, study the list of best govt jobs after graduation to choose your vocation and check the selection criteria to gauge your strength. This guide will provide you with all the necessary information.

Why it's Hard for Graduates to Get a Job

According to the India Skills Report, the employment of young professionals after obtaining a degree rose to 47% in 2019. For comparison, in 2014, this indicator was 33%. These statistics prove that more and more employers are interested in novel ideas and fresh perspectives. Nevertheless, 47% is still less than half of the total number of graduates, and therefore the issue of finding work after college or university remains open. The central obstacles faced by fresh graduates looking for employment are:

1. Lack of experience - Even the best educational program does not provide full immersion in the chosen industry and position. Graduates without experience need more time to gain momentum, take on rhythm, and adapt to the real-world environment. Unfortunately, not all employers are ready to give this time and sacrifice instant results for prospects.
2. High competition - The issue of employment is acute for all graduates. The number of graduates seeking employment often exceeds the number of available vacancies. This provokes a struggle for every workplace. To mitigate competition, do not knock on every door. In this case, you will have to compete with a myriad of applicants, which reduces your chances of finding a job. Instead, think about what kind of work meets your qualifications and will please you in the future. It is an easy way to shorten the list of potential employers and compete with fewer graduates, respectively. Rest assured, it is much easier to find your first job when you understand what you are actually looking for. Besides, a candidate who chose a profession consciously always has extra points in the selection process.
3. Self-doubt - When it comes to high competition, self-doubt is an inexcusable error. Remember that all graduates are on equal footing: they have a degree but do not have experience. But some get the job, while others continue to look for work. Why does it happen? The former could prove that they are worthy candidates, while the latter did not realize their value and made excuses for the lack of experience. Therefore, your career opportunities are directly dependent on your self-presentation. Focus on your skills and personal qualities that are of value to the employer and can tip the scale in your favor.

Types of Government Jobs in India

The public sector of India is not inferior to the private one in the number of vacancies and the range of career opportunities. Annually, official websites such as IndGovtJobs.in publish thousands of jobs for both technical and non-technical specialists in different states of India, including Mumbai, New Delhi, Tamil Nadu, Uttar Pradesh, and others. It is a great occasion to study the current market offers and get a government job in India which covers your preferences and qualifications. To start with, check out the most popular job types.

• Civil Services - Civil services include the Indian Administrative Service (IAS), Indian Police Service (IPS) and Indian Foreign Service (IFS). These jobs are not only high paying, but also well regarded among the local population. IAS takes part in the development and adoption of important government decisions and bears responsibility for policy implementation. IFS officers are the frontmen of the country who play a critical role in external negotiations and diplomatic agreements. IPS provides security for citizens and takes care of law and order. All of the above branches of civil service have high requirements for candidates since each position carries a noble mission.
• Bank Jobs - Bank jobs are among the most popular and accessible, as bank branches are located even in the smallest regions of the country. Your potential employers may be State Bank of India, Reserve Bank of India, PSU Banks, or Regional & Rural Banks. Requirements for qualifications and education vary depending on the position. In general, the candidate must have at least a bachelor's degree in the relevant industry, as well as computer and mathematical skills. If you are ready to meet the basic expectations of employers, then the sector is an up-close opportunity to get a government job after graduation.
• Science - Science is an integral component of progress, and bright minds are always worth their weight in gold. Therefore, scientists at such state institutions of India as ISRO, DRDO have individual housing and medical insurance as rewards for their contribution to the development of the country. However, do not delude yourself with only the benefits of the scientific field. The government puts forward strict demands for each of its representatives and carefully monitors the productivity of their activities. But if you have a thirst for knowledge and the pursuit of innovation, it should not scare you.
• Defense Services - This sector includes the coast guard, navy, and army. The security of the state and its citizens is a joint noble mission that unites all its representatives. In addition to education at the National Defense Academy, these works require physical fitness, endurance, stress resistance, and moral courage. In exchange for this, you get a high standard of wages, perks, and respect for your activities.
• Healthcare Services - Healthcare providers are always in demand at government agencies such as the All India Institute of Medical Science (AIIMS), Safdarjung hospital, G.B. Pant Hospital. Given that you will be responsible for the health and life of the population, your qualifications play a critical role. Education, in this case, is the primary selection criterion. Therefore, each candidate must have a master's or doctoral degree. When choosing the healthcare industry as your professional path, be prepared for a stressful work environment, continuous self-improvement, and service to the indigents. Remember that the doctor is often the second God for people, so all your efforts should be fostered at justifying this honorary title.
• Academic Jobs - Representatives of the education sector take an active part in the professional and personality formation of undergraduates. Therefore, your qualifications should include not only impeccable knowledge of the subject but also patience, emotional intelligence, and stress resistance. As a cherry on the cake, teaching allows for the conducting of research that is funded by the state, which is an additional opportunity to unlock your potential. Before applying for a position, remember that college or school teacher posts require at least a bachelor's degree. And if you are aiming for a professorship, be prepared to present a Ph.D.
• Railway Jobs - Indian Railway offers the largest number of public jobs compared to other sectors. Contrary to popular opinion, this organization does not just accept specialists with a degree in engineering. It’s doors are also open to non-technical workers such as the ticket inspector, ticket reservation master, or the railway police officer. Education requirements and qualifications vary by position. Detailed information and job descriptions are always available on the official Indian Railway website.
• Insurance Jobs - Insurance is gaining momentum around the world as people begin to think one step further and foresee how external factors can affect their well-being and financial condition. General Insurance Corporation and Life Insurance Corporation are the leading government organizations in India that are willing to provide entry-level positions to graduates. In particular, you can try your hand in roles such as Assistant Administrative Officer and Apprentice Development Officer.
• Public Sector Undertakings - State-owned companies such as Oil and Natural Gas Corporation, Coal India, Indian Oil Corporation Ltd., or Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited are market majors and suppliers of jobs for the population. The main advantages of these units are a wide range of job opportunities from junior to managerial positions that gives you a viable chance to join the public sector without experience.
• State Public Service Commission Jobs - The State Public Service Commission operates in every state of India and offers jobs in local government, conducts examinations of applicants, and appoints candidates for public office in various sectors. Here you can try your hand at such positions as regional transport officer, maintenance, repair and overhaul specialist, tehsildar, and so on. However, be prepared to prove your compliance with the job and rank of a civil servant.

Competitive Exams After Graduation for Govt Jobs

Entrance examinations are the primary condition for obtaining any public job. They vary depending on the selected public sector branch, position, and required qualifications. These tests include several stages, which together provide a comprehensive assessment of the candidate and help to choose the best ones among thousands of applications. Sometimes the exam stages and approval of a candidate can take up to a year, which is one more excellent way to test your patience, motivation, and genuine desire to join the public sector.