LABOUR MARKET DISRUPTIONS: UNDERSTATING THE IMPACT OF COVID-19 IN THE VIKAS NAGAR UTTARAKHAND – AN ETHNOGRAPHIC SURVEY

The sudden rise and spread of the pandemic caught the globe, resulting in major lockdowns. The COVID-19 lockdownseverely disrupted mobility, social interactions, and economic activities, leaving a profound impact on the labor marketin the Vikas Nagar. This study, based on primary data, examines job losses and rising unemployment across socialgroups and occupations from April 2020 to February 2024.The findings reveal a widespread employment crisis,disproportionately affecting daily wage earners, migrant workers, and transporters—primarily from the informalsector. While Vikas Nagar’s economy, reliant on agriculture and allied services, initially absorbed displaced laborers,fear of transmission and uncertainty over lockdown duration led to a steady decline in employment opportunities.Recovery in rural labor markets remains sluggish compared to urban areas, with minimal household incomeimprovements. The economic fallout, marked by prolonged job insecurity, underscores the urgent need for targetedpolicies ensuring employment security and social protection. Strengthening labor-intensive enterprises, upskillingworkers, and fostering micro and small businesses are crucial to mitigating post-pandemic challenges and stabilizingthe workforce