The study highlights and examines the challenges faced by unemployed individuals in Imphal West, Manipur,

focusing on their daily life experiences and coping mechanisms. It explores whether they rely on intoxicating

substances or adopt healthier strategies to deal with their circumstances. The study further investigates their

substances, which adversely impact their physical health, interpersonal relationships, and overall well-being.

Many also suffer from psychological distress, including anxiety and depression. The study offers several

recommendations and strategies to address these issues more effectively, aiming to promote a healthier, more

productive, and socially supportive environment within the community.

of working age (18–35 years), are currently not engaged in any formal or permanent job, and are actively

seeking or willing to work but remain without employment.

attempt to sustain their living. This includes support from family, reliance on government aid, involvement in

Unemployment is considered one of the most challenges faced by people globally.With the increase in

technological advancement, increase economic qualities, increased in educational platforms, thus results in the

increase of finances so unfortunately, unemployed people find these as a most challenging part of their life,

requires enough amount to buy daily needs, like foods, clothing, shelter, education etc. So because of these

inconveniences their lives even lead to the darker path such as they may use alcohols, drugs, smoking to

handle this mental sorrow, unstability in their mind. And even there is increased in crime rates because of this

unemployment, in order to get enough money they may become ruthless trying to harm others with no

emotions, feeling jealous of one another and create crimes and chaos. They may feel isaolated and cannot

manage the relationships with the society so results creating an evil eye with one another which can be very

dangerous in surviving in the society. It is not only about the unemployed people suffering but also people

LIFESTYSLES OF UNEMPLOYED PEOPLE IN IMPHAL-WEST, MANIPUR”, focusing on how

unemployed people are affected, face challenges and cope with the challenges.

Unemployment arises from a complex interplay of factors. Structural unemployment emerges when there is a

mismatch between the skills of the workforce and the demands of the market. This can result from

technological advancements, shifts in industries, or changes in consumer preferences. Cyclical unemployment,

on the other hand, is tied to the natural fluctuations of the economy. During periods of economic downturn,

businesses may reduce their workforce, leading to higher unemployment rates. Additionally, frictional

unemployment occurs as individuals’ transition between jobs or enters the workforce for the first time.The

repercussions of unemployment are far-reaching. Economically, it leads to a reduction in household income,

on mental health. Families may also bear the brunt, with relationships strained due to financial pressures and

emotional stress.Addressing unemployment requires a multifaceted approach. Governments play a pivotal role

by implementing policies that stimulate economic growth, such as investing in infrastructure, supporting small

and medium-sized enterprises, and promoting innovation. Education systems must evolve to provide skills that

align with market demands, emphasizing vocational training and lifelong learning. Social safety nets, including

unemployment benefits and job placement services, can provide temporary relief and support during

transitions. Moreover, fostering entrepreneurship can be a powerful tool. Encouraging individuals to start their

own businesses not only creates jobs but also drives innovation and economic diversification. By addressing

the root causes and implementing comprehensive solutions, societies can mitigate the adverse effects of

unemployment and pave the way for a more prosperous and equitable future.

 H

1: Lack of relevant skills contributes to high unemployment among youths in Imphal West.

 H

2: Educational qualifications do not match the job opportunities available in Imphal West.

 H

3: Government programs aimed at reducing youth unemployment are not effectively reaching or

benefiting the unemployed youths.

 H

4: Unemployed youths in Imphal West adopt coping strategies such as informal work or

and lifestyles of unemployed youths in Imphal- West, Manipur under Dhanamanjuri University. This

descriptive method was choosen because it provides a comprehensive understanding of the lifestyles,

experiences, challenges faced by the unemployed youths, allows data collection in a structured way, and

enables easier analysis of patterns and giving meaningful conclusions.

Population of Imphal-West, Manipur in 2025 is 6,14,000 peoples and this sample is selected on 50

unemployed youths age 18 to 35 in Imphal- West, Manipur. The population of this study consists of

unemployed youths residing in Imphal-West district, Manipur. This age group represents the most active and

productive section of society. Many within this group face employment challenges due to limited

opportunities. The population includes both male males and females. The population provides a broad base for

primary data collection. The questionnaire comprises 30 questions based on Yes or No type. The questionnaire

was distributed to 50 unemployed youths.

The data collected from the self-made questionnaire will be analysed using percentage method for overall data

analysis and T-Test for gender-based comparison.

part-time or informal income-

2. The percentage (48%) yes and (52%) no shows that few look for self-employment and business while

1. The percentage (40%) yes and (60%) no shows that majority of them don’t use any intoxicating

substances but few does which can be injurious to health leading to unwanted consequences.

2. The percentage (70%) yes and (30%) no shows that majority of them faced divorced and unstable in

relationships among family members that can create emotional trauma in child in the family.

3. The percentage (0%) yes and (100%) no shows none of these youths faced suicide among their family

members.

4. The percentage (60%) yes and (40%) no shows that majority of them face challenges in finding jobs

which might be because of financial problems or lack of skills, or lack of motivation.

mental health.

Mean difference: -3.2% (females slightly higher).

T-test: p = 0.62 (not significant) → No gender-based difference.

Interpretation: Unemployment caused by lack of skills and mismatch between qualifications and job

availability affects both genders equally.

Males (53.8% Yes) and females (58.1% Yes) reported that unemployment negatively affects daily life, health,

and social engagement.

Mean difference: -4.3% (females slightly more affected).

T-test: p = 0.55 (not significant).

Interpretation: Long-term unemployment deteriorates lifestyle and living standards similarly for both genders,

T-test: p = 0.84 (not significant).

gender gap. Government programs are seen as ineffective by both.

Females (55.0% Yes) reported slightly higher coping struggles (drug use, quarrels, migration pressure, job

search challenges) than males (50.0% Yes).

Mean difference: -5.0% (females slightly higher).

T-test: p = 0.47 (not significant).

Interpretation: Coping strategies and social consequences of unemployment (conflict, stress, migration) are

responses between males and females across all themes.