By BIS Correspondent for BIS Mumbai

A Mega Job Fair – 2026 was successfully organised on May 19, 2026 at Don Bosco Kawant in Chhota Udepur District, creating a significant platform for rural tribal youth to explore employment, educational, and skill development opportunities. The large-scale initiative brought together young people, industries, educational institutions, and social organisations under one roof with the common objective of promoting sustainable livelihood opportunities and economic empowerment among tribal communities.

The event witnessed enthusiastic participation from 235 young men and women representing 69 villages across Kawant Taluka. Participants came from villages such as Nakhal, Panwad, Amalwant, Samalwant, Kanabeda, Athadungari, Aamsota, Mankodi, and Piplada. Among them were 103 young women and 122 young men, reflecting the growing awareness and aspiration among tribal youth towards higher education, employment, and skill-oriented careers.

The Mega Job Fair was jointly organised by DISHA Don Bosco Kawant, Rotary Club of Baroda Jawaharnagar, Don Bosco Past Pupils Association Kawant, and Avasar Don Bosco Mumbai. The organisers aimed to connect educated tribal youth — from Standard 8 to college graduates and beyond — with reputed companies, training centres, educational institutions, and social organisations. The initiative also sought to guide young people towards self-reliance by helping them access meaningful employment and professional training opportunities.

The programme commenced with the ceremonial lighting of the lamp followed by an interfaith prayer service, symbolising harmony, unity, and hope. Mr Hasmukh Christian, Programme Officer of DISHA, led the participants in reading the Preamble to the Constitution of India, reaffirming the values of justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity.

Representatives from participating organisations and industries were warmly welcomed during the inaugural session. The participating institutions included Larsen & Toubro, CII Model Career Centre Vadodara, JCB, Avenue Supermarts, Manpower Group Services India Limited, The Maharaja Sayajirao University of Baroda, Muniseva Ashram Goraj, along with several educational and social institutions working for youth development and community welfare.

In his welcome address, Fr Dr Mayank Parmar, Rector of Don Bosco Kawant and Director of DISHA, emphasised the transformative role of education and skill-based training in ensuring economic empowerment among rural tribal youth. He encouraged the participants to make full use of the opportunities available and to build a brighter future through dedication, hard work, and continuous learning.

The fair continued from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. and received an encouraging response from both participants and recruiters. A total of 209 registrations were recorded with different organisations, including 94 registrations with Avenue Supermarts, 31 with JCB, 80 with VTC, and 4 with The Maharaja Sayajirao University.

The overwhelming participation of the youth, their eagerness to explore opportunities, and the positive response from the participating organisations made the Mega Job Fair a remarkable success. Representatives from the companies and institutions appreciated the initiative and congratulated the organisers for creating a meaningful platform that effectively bridges the gap between rural tribal youth and employment opportunities, while also promoting dignity, confidence, and hope for a better future.