The youth population represents a dynamic and vital segment of society, possessing immense potential to drive progress and development. This is particularly evident in developing nations with significant numbers of young people, where strategic investments in education, healthcare, and human rights protections can yield tremendous growth and transformation. It is widely acknowledged that the youth of today hold the key to a prosperous and sustainable future, serving as innovators, creators, builders, and leaders who will shape and guide the world to come. As such, it is imperative that we prioritize and invest in the empowerment of young people, equipping them with the knowledge, skills, and resources they need to thrive and contribute to a better tomorrow. Jammu and Kashmir are a union territory that boasts one of the youngest populations in India, with over 62% of its inhabitants falling within the working age bracket of 15 to 59 years. Furthermore, more than 54% of the region’s total population is under the age of 25. This demographic profile presents a unique opportunity for J&K to leverage the talents, energy, and potential of its youth to drive economic growth, social progress, and cultural enrichment. The youth of Kashmir is an invaluable asset to India, representing the future of our great nation and serving as ambassadors of our culture and values on a global stage. We must recognize and acknowledge the critical role that Kashmiri youth play in the nation-building process, as their contributions will shape the trajectory of our country for decades to come. With their creativity, passion, and dedication, the youth of Kashmir can help us overcome the challenges of the present and build a brighter future for all. As responsible citizens of India, the youth of Kashmir have a crucial role to play in advancing the nation’s growth and development. They are the building blocks of a strong and prosperous country, and their contributions are essential to achieving our collective goals. With their intelligence, innovation, and leadership skills, the youth of Kashmir can help shape a future that is inclusive, sustainable, and just. By investing in their education, skills training, and well-being, we can empower them to reach their full potential and become the future leaders and change-makers of our nation. The current situation in Kashmir demands urgent action to engage with young people and steer them away from resorting to violence and picking up arms for a misguided and destructive cause. It is imperative to conduct a thorough examination of the root causes of youth frustration that fuels violent tendencies and to take all necessary measures to prevent such outcomes. By investing in education, economic opportunities, and social support systems, we can empower young people to overcome the challenges they face and to chart a path towards a brighter future. The lack of economic opportunities and high unemployment rates are major contributors to youth frustration and social unrest in Kashmir. With a significant “youth bulge,” where the majority of the population is under the age of 35, the region faces a critical challenge in providing gainful employment and productive avenues for its young people. Currently, 48% of the population between the ages of 18 to 30 in the Kashmir Valley are without jobs, creating a sense of disillusionment and hopelessness. Addressing this issue must be a top priority for policymakers and leaders in the region. The ongoing violent conflict and political instability in Kashmir have deeply impacted the social fabric and mental well-being of its people, particularly its youth. The young generation has grown up in an environment of fear, uncertainty, and stress, which has taken a significant toll on their mental health and sense of identity. The feelings of desperation, anger, and helplessness are prevalent among Kashmiri youth, making it all the more critical to provide them with adequate social support, counseling, and other forms of mental health care. The Security Forces has played a crucial role in protecting the citizens of Kashmir from violence and external threats. However, propaganda efforts by hostile forces have succeeded in undermining the goodwill and trust between the Security Forces and local residents, particularly young people. The Security Forces is often seen as an instrument of government policy aimed at suppressing the freedom and aspirations of the Kashmiri people. It is essential to address this perception and to rebuild trust and mutual respect between the Army and the local population, particularly the youth, who are the future of the region. By engaging in open and constructive dialogue and actively involving young people in decision-making processes, we can foster a sense of ownership and partnership towards building a more peaceful and prosperous Kashmir. The youth of Jammu and Kashmir must be inspired and encouraged to take an active interest in politics as a means of serving their country. It is crucial to create awareness among them about the importance of anti-corruption drives and educate them on the strategies for fighting corruption. Empowering the youth is a step towards good governance, which is vital for the sustainable development of the region. The Government of India has initiated several programs and schemes to address the issue of unemployment among the youth of Jammu and Kashmir. Furthermore, the establishment of infrastructure such as schools, colleges, community development centers, and ITIs has been instrumental in imparting quality education and creating self-employment opportunities. The government has also emphasized the significance of sports and encouraged the youth to engage in sporting activities, which not only channelizes their energy but also provides them with a viable career option. The solution to the challenges faced by Jammu and Kashmir lies in the hands of its people. The people must generate the will to give peace a chance, which will, in turn, enable the smooth implementation of development activities. The development activities will create job opportunities that will allow the youth to utilize their energy in productive pursuits, thus transforming the socio-economic landscape of the region. The media can play a critical role in reducing the existing hostility among the Kashmiri Awaam. The media has enormous power and influence, and if it is channeled in the right direction, it can help bring forth true facts and reduce misinformation. It is essential to motivate the media to use its power responsibly and contribute to peacebuilding efforts in Jammu and Kashmir. To curb terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir, the youth must become the center of gravity of the government’s policy. Sincere efforts in this direction have the potential to bring about a significant change in the socio-political landscape of the region. The government must prioritize the youth’s development and empowerment, as they are the future of the region and are instrumental in building a prosperous and peaceful Jammu and Kashmir. The youth of Jammu and Kashmir play a vital role in nation-building. They are not only problem solvers but also positive influencers for their peers and the nation as a whole. Additionally, they are highly motivated and ambitious, making them essential assets for the progress of the region. It is imperative to recognize the potential of these young individuals and provide them with the necessary resources and support to create an identity for themselves while simultaneously contributing to the development of the nation. Efforts must be made to break the vicious cycle of poverty, malnutrition, corruption, violence, and unemployment in Jammu and Kashmir. The passion and energy of the Kashmiri youth need to be harnessed in the right direction to drive the progress and prosperity of our nation. By channeling them zeal and enthusiasm in a constructive manner, we can ensure a brighter future for Jammu and Kashmir and the entire country.
