Research & Working Papers 2025

Navigating the Youth Frontier

Rajesh Shukla , Adite Banerjie , Asha Sharma

Research Paper 

Abstract

India’s formidable 420-million strong population of youth embodies a reservoir of untapped potential. If nurtured, the youth could power the country to realize its ambition of becoming a developed economy by 2047. This paper delves into the evolving socio-political economic-digital landscape of contemporary India, emphasizing the necessity for strategic recalibrations to empower the youth. Beyond imparting skills and capabilities, the focus has to shift to create an enabling environment that unleashes the full potential of this pivotal demographic. Recognizing the aspirations of India’s youth is crucial for catalysing their transition into productive contributors to national growth.
Amidst technological advancements and the pervasive digital environment, policymakers face the intricate task of designing targeted interventions that align with the evolving needs of the youth while leveraging technology for inclusive development. The promise of India’s youth, however, is marred by significant disparities in access to essential resources such as healthcare, education, gender equality, employment, and living conditions. Addressing these inequities and investing in equitable resource distribution are imperative for harnessing India’s demographic dividend and achieving developed economy status by 2047. This paper provides a comprehensive exploration of the multifaceted landscape of India’s youth, analysing their economic status, aspirations, challenges, and opportunities. By examining the perceptions, realities, and imperatives shaping the youth narrative, the paper offers insights into the current status quo and highlights key factors for unlocking the transformative potential of India’s youth.