From Software Engineer to Bike Taxi Driver: A Noida Professional's Struggle
An IT engineer from Noida has become the face of India's growing job uncertainty in the technology sector after losing his employment and turning to Rapido bike taxi services to pay his home loan EMIs. The story, shared through an Instagram video by creator Nomadic Teju, has ignited widespread discussion about financial planning and job security in the private sector.
The Harsh Reality of Unemployment and Financial Commitments
The software professional, whose friend shared his story in a video shot in Greater Noida's Gaur City area, has been without stable employment for two months. His situation worsened after he voluntarily left his previous position, expecting to quickly secure a better role. However, the ongoing hiring slowdown in the IT sector dashed his hopes, leaving him in a precarious financial situation.
Compounding his troubles are the substantial financial commitments he had made during better times. The engineer had taken a 30-year home loan for a property in an area where apartment prices range between Rs 1 crore and Rs 2 crore. With monthly rents in the locality reaching Rs 30,000-35,000 and his EMI burden remaining constant, the financial pressure became unbearable without a regular income.
Drastic Lifestyle Changes and Survival Strategies
The engineer's predicament forced him to make difficult decisions that have significantly impacted his family life. Unable to manage household expenses without a stable income, he had to send his family back to their native place while he continues to live alone in a rented apartment nearby.
To make ends meet and continue paying his EMIs, the IT professional has adopted multiple income streams. He currently works as a Rapido delivery rider and occasionally takes up freelance assignments whenever available. Despite these efforts, surviving without a permanent job has proven extremely challenging, according to his friend Teju.
Broader Implications and Online Reactions
The viral video has sparked crucial conversations about several pressing issues affecting technology professionals across India. Many social media users have pointed to the growing uncertainty in tech jobs, particularly with increasing disruptions caused by Artificial Intelligence and the ongoing hiring slowdown in the sector.
One comment that gained significant traction advised: "Take a personal loan for luxuries if you want, but never take a 30-year home loan if you're in a private job." Another user criticized what they termed as "fake lifestyle" culture that's ruining middle-class people, while others highlighted the skills gap in the industry, noting that many professionals rely too heavily on tools like ChatGPT without developing substantial coding knowledge.
The discussion also touched upon inflated real estate prices, with one user sarcastically remarking that waiting five more years would make the situation so dire that "no one will be there to save you." The case has emerged as a cautionary tale about financial planning, job security assessment, and the risks associated with long-term financial commitments in unstable employment conditions.
