| PYQ Relevance: Q) “Demographic Dividend in India will remain only theoretical unless our manpower becomes more educated, aware, skilled and creative.” What measures have been taken by the government to enhance the capacity of our population to be more productive and employable? (UPSC CSE 2016) Q) Has digital illiteracy, particularly in rural areas, coupled with lack of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) accessibility hindered socio-economic development? Examine with justification. (UPSC CSE 2021) |
Mentor’s Comment: UPSC mains have always focused on topics like ‘Demographic Dividend’ (2016) and ‘Literacy Issues in India’ (2021 & 2024).
The 2021 Youth Report highlighted that 36% of youth consider unemployment their primary concern, followed by 16% citing poverty. These economic issues create significant obstacles for youth aspiring to take on leadership roles.
Today’s Editorial explores how educational institutions, community programs, and innovative initiatives can cultivate leadership among the youth, preparing them to tackle future challenges. This content can be used while writing your answers based on Population issues, Literacy and Employment Issues in the Indian Youth.
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Let’s learn!
Why in the News?
Every year on January 12, India celebrates National Youth Day to honor the birth anniversary of Swami Vivekananda.
- This year, the Prime Minister will participate in the Viksit Bharat Young Leaders Dialogue, aimed at engaging youth in the nation’s development.
- In line with India’s commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the festival has incorporated workshops, seminars and cultural activities that align with the vision of a greener, more inclusive, future.
| What are the key areas of the Viksit Bharat Young Leaders Dialogue 2025? The dialogue is a four-stage competition aimed at engaging and empowering youth in India’s development. • Evaluation Criteria is based on the submissions are assessed based on originality, knowledge, creativity, leadership, and communication skills. The finale provides a unique opportunity for participants to influence national policy and contribute to India’s vision of a Viksit Bharat. • Viksit Bharat Quiz: Conducted digitally on the My Bharat platform, this stage tests participants’ knowledge of India’s achievements and challenges related to sustainable development, technology, and national policies. • Essay and Blog Writing: Top scorers from the quiz advance to write essays or blogs on themes like “Tech for Viksit Bharat” and “Empowering Youth for Viksit Bharat,” focusing on their vision for India’s future. • Vision Pitch Deck: Participants present innovative development ideas at the State level through a compelling pitch deck, with the best teams moving forward. The 2025 National Youth Festival will feature: • Workshops and panels on leadership and innovation: With a focus on recent and emerging topics it will equip participants with the skills necessary to drive change in their communities. • Cultural programmes: The festival will celebrate India’s rich cultural heritage through music, dance, theatre, and folk art performances. • Tech and innovation showcase: It will include exhibitions and presentations from young tech innovators and entrepreneurs who are building solutions to real-world problems in sectors such as health, education, agriculture, and urban development. (included with expanded virtual participation) • Engagement with leaders: The direct engagement between youth and key leaders as pathbreakers from various sectors, which include government, business and academia will provide participants with insights into leadership, governance, and the path to national progress. • Recognition of youth contributions: Awards and recognitions will be presented to young individuals and organisations. By focusing on these areas inclusively, India can cultivate a new generation of leaders equipped to address the nation’s challenges. |
What are the barriers preventing youth from participating in leadership opportunities?
- Lack of Representation: Minimal youth representation in decision-making bodies, such as government and political parties, leads to a disconnect between young voices and policy-making.
- For example, our youth representation in decision-making bodies is minimal, with less than 1.5% of Lok Sabha MPs under Age 30.
- Financial Barriers: A notable 60% of students pursuing higher education come from families earning less than Rs. 5 lakh annually, indicating that many youth face financial challenges that limit their access to educational and leadership opportunities. (Youth Report 2021)
- Age-Related Biases: Societal biases against younger individuals in positions of authority discourage them from seeking leadership roles.
- Limited Resources and Mentorship: Many young people lack access to mentorship and resources necessary for developing leadership skills (particularly women and less abled people), especially in rural areas.
| Recent Government Initiative: • Mera Yuva Bharat (MY Bharat): It is an autonomous body under the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, plays an instrumental role in shaping and guiding the direction of the National Youth Festival. • As a platform that empowers youth by promoting engagement, knowledge sharing, and participation in nation-building activities, it is crucial in curating the festival’s programmes and ensuring that they align with the aspirations of India’s youth. “Give me one hundred ‘believing’ young men… I will transform India as the number one nation in the entire world….” — Swami Vivekanand |
In what ways can educational institutions contribute to nurturing future leaders?
- Structured Leadership Development Programs: Institutions can implement tailored leadership programs that focus on skill development, strategic visioning, and adaptive leadership.
- For example, the UGC has approved guidelines for such programs in higher education institutions.
- Experiential Learning Opportunities: Programs that combine theoretical knowledge with practical experiences can enhance leadership skills.
- For example, initiatives like the EdLEAP program at IIM Calcutta focus on contemporary management practices.
- Mentorship and Peer Learning: Establishing mentorship frameworks and peer learning communities can foster collaboration and knowledge sharing among aspiring leaders.
- For example, the programs like the Primary Leadership Development Program (PLDP) in Delhi emphasize continuous learning and improvement.
- Focus on Inclusivity and Diversity: Institutions should promote inclusivity by encouraging diverse participation in leadership roles, ensuring that underrepresented groups have access to leadership training and opportunities. This approach helps create a more equitable environment for developing future leaders.
https://www.thehindu.com/opinion/lead/forging-leadership-with-indias-youth-power/article69086126.ece
