India’s Youth: A Double Edged Sword

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You must have heard that India is the country of youth. Over 26 percent of the total population is youth. India has one of the largest youth populations globally, with over 600 million people between the ages of 10-24 (as of 2022) [Source: MoSPI “Youth in India” 2022]. This number is expected to continue growing for the next decade. As the young population has the energy and potential to do big things, it is often considered great having youth as a big part of the population. Is that so? We must  have a look at it. What are the major drawbacks of having such a population? 

Talented pool of any country settling down somewhere else is a big pain. It is like watering a plant for eternity that blossoms in someone else’s garden. Millions migrate every year, with reports suggesting 2.5 million annually (Source: Ministry of External Affairs report). Higher education and good wages Might be a reason for it. As per latest statistics, Indian students going abroad for education increased by nearly 70% compared to 2021. 

Another significant concern regarding India’s large youth population is the tendency towards trend-following and herd mentality. With the proliferation of social media and digital connectivity, trends can spread rapidly among the youth, leading to a homogenization of culture and a lack of critical thinking. This herd mentality often results in young people making decisions based on peer pressure rather than independent reasoning, which can be detrimental to both individual growth and societal progress.

Religious outrage is another issue that can arise within a youthful population. While diversity of religious beliefs is a cornerstone of Indian society, the youth, in some cases, may become susceptible to extremist ideologies or engage in acts of religious intolerance. Instances of religious violence or discrimination can disrupt social harmony and hinder the country’s development.

Furthermore, the influence of Westernization presents both opportunities and challenges for India’s youth. While exposure to global cultures can broaden perspectives and foster creativity, there is a risk of cultural erosion and identity crisis as young people adopt foreign norms and values at the expense of their own rich heritage.

Additionally, the formation of unhealthy habits among the youth is a pressing concern. Factors such as stress, peer pressure, and easy access to addictive substances contribute to the prevalence of issues like substance abuse, smoking, and excessive screen time. These habits not only jeopardize individual health and well-being but also strain healthcare resources and impede overall societal progress.

In conclusion, while India’s large youth population holds immense promise for the country’s future, it also presents a host of challenges that must be addressed. From migration and herd mentality to religious outrage and unhealthy habits, there are various factors that can hinder the realisation of the youth’s full potential. Therefore, it is imperative for policymakers, educators, and society at large to foster an environment that empowers young people to thrive while also instilling values of responsibility, critical thinking, and cultural pride. Only then can India truly harness the demographic dividend offered by its youth population and steer towards a brighter future.

 

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