A country’s future is its youth, and it should be accepted not just in speeches, but also through actions and policies. We can make them feel special only when we empower them with enough job opportunities and facilities to grow. A lot of hope has been placed on the capabilities of the Indian youth, but do we have enough opportunities and facilities to utilise such capabilities? 

The financial year ending March 2024 saw the Indian economy growing at 8.2 per cent, becoming the fastest-growing economy this year. This growth has been predicted to become stronger over the coming decades. However, the labour market condition tells a completely different story. The red flags raised by analysts call for immediate steps to be taken.

The youth in the Indian scenario can be classified into two broad categories, one is the educated lot with skills but the other is not. The social, political, and economic issues affecting the country’s growth are also casting a dark shadow on the Indian youth. If we truly believe that the nation’s progress is in the hands of its youth, we must address the challenges they face.

Dual Reality of Indian Youth

One of the problems faced by our educated youth is increasing competition, which is particularly prevalent in the public sector. The number of students who are eliminated in different competitive exams is much higher than those who are selected. The reservation factor also adds to the trouble as admission is often given on parameters other than merit. Intense competition breeds an environment of frustration, dejection, and a sense of disillusionment among the educated youth. 

Furthermore, there exists a significant gap between what is being taught in the classroom and what is required by the job market. The rate at which unemployment is growing in the country only shows that the education of India’s youth does not match the demands of the job market. 

When there is so much struggle and chaos between the job market and those seeking jobs, it leads to corruption. Since there are fewer jobs and more candidates, many people will try to bypass the normal route to get hired, such as by using connections or bribing.  Those who are not that fortunate enough are left behind, often grappling with mental health issues. This creates another situation as deserving candidates are often overlooked.

It is worth considering another critical factor. While India’s economic growth has been impressive, it is mostly driven by technology, wherein the need for manpower is not as much as is created by manufacturing sectors. Technology eases our lives and reduces the need for human interference but it is hurting the labour market. 

Is the Youth Truly Prepared?

Putting aside government policies, the present unemployment crisis also raises questions about how Indian youth perceive education. The thought process towards being educated needs to change among India’s youth and should shift from just obtaining a degree to acquiring skills that can be utilised by corporate houses or for starting their businesses. If we do not dedicate our time in the classroom or laboratories, we will end up doing odd jobs to make ends meet.

Times have changed, and a degree is only valuable if it reflects the skills and knowledge it represents. A degree may get a job but it will not last long if your skills are not at par with the job requirements. As automation and mechanisation continue to eliminate traditional jobs, it becomes imperative for the youth to pursue an education that aligns with future industry needs.

Also Read: Skills vs Qualifications: Staying Relevant for Career Success

The above rule of acquiring competency and skills in demand also applies to all those who are planning to study overseas. Developed countries are more particular about why you are pursuing a programme and what outcome you wish to have. Studying visa reforms in the recent past conveys the same message as these major economies are not looking for truck or Uber drivers. These countries seek international students who can innovate, create technologies, and contribute to their economies. So, if you wish to work in India or overseas and are on the verge of pursuing a higher education make sure that you get the skills that are required in the future. Students aspiring to study at an international university can talk to overseas education consultants in Chandigarh to move in the right direction.

The Takeaway

Times are changing and the success formulas used by our grandfathers may not be as effective today. Keeping their wisdom at heart and basking in their blessings, we need to create our success strategy and that comprises of acquiring skills that will be in demand in the years to come. This applies to all those who want to study at home or overseas.