31 August 2024 : Indian Express Editorial Analysis

1. No polity for the young

(Source: Indian Express; Section: The Ideas Page; Page: 12)

Topic: GS2– Social Justice

Context:

The article discusses the evolving role of youth in shaping both the present and future, emphasizing their increasing influence in business and technology while highlighting their limited representation in politics.

The Rise of Young Leaders in Industry

• The transition from an elder-led society to one where the youth play a pivotal role is starkly visible in the rise of young entrepreneurs.
• The advent of Industry 3.0, characterized by rapid technological advancements, has seen young innovators at the forefront of global progress.
• Figures like Larry Page of Google and Mark Zuckerberg of Facebook exemplify this trend, having founded major tech companies in their twenties.
• This phenomenon is not limited to the West; in countries like India, the IT sector and other industries are increasingly dominated by young leaders who are driving economic growth and innovation.

Challenges of Youth Participation in Politics

• Despite their growing influence in business and technology, young people still face significant barriers in politics.
• Globally, and particularly in developing countries like India, the political landscape remains dominated by older generations.
• Although nearly half of the world’s population is under 30, less than 2% of elected legislators are young, highlighting a glaring disconnect between the demographics of the population and their political representation.
• Initiatives like the UN’s “Not Too Young To Run” campaign aim to address this disparity, yet progress remains slow.

The Persistence of Nepotism in Politics

• One of the major obstacles to greater youth participation in politics is the persistence of nepotism and dynastic rule.
• In India, this trend has deep roots, dating back to the Independence movement when figures like Motilal Nehru were accused of using their influence to advance their offspring’s political careers.
• This practice has continued, with political families often dominating the leadership of major parties.
• Despite efforts to introduce young leaders, these attempts frequently result in promoting individuals based on family connections rather than merit, thereby stifling the entry of truly capable and committed young politicians.

The Call for Change

• Prime Minister Narendra Modi has been vocal about the need to dismantle the entrenched systems of nepotism and casteism in Indian politics.
• In his speeches, Modi has called for a new generation of leaders, unburdened by political legacies, to step forward and reshape the political landscape.
• He emphasizes that the youth are ready to take on this challenge, provided they are given the right opportunities and guidance.
• However, the question remains whether the current political class is genuinely prepared to cede space to these new leaders or if they will continue to prioritize their own familial interests over the broader needs of the nation.

Conclusion

• The discussion surrounding the role of youth in shaping both the present and future is multifaceted.
• While young people have undeniably made their mark in various fields, their influence in politics remains limited by systemic barriers such as nepotism.
• The challenge moving forward is to create an environment where the youth can participate fully and fairly in all aspects of public life, ensuring that the leadership of tomorrow is as diverse and dynamic as the populations they represent.

What are the Opportunities and Challenges Related to Youth Population in India?

Status of Youth Population: India has more than 50% of its population below the age of 25 and more than 65% below the age of 35. India is home to a fifth of the world’s youth demographic and this population advantage could play a critical role in achieving the nation’s ambitious target to become a USD 5 trillion economy. Opportunities: Human Capital Investment:  India’s youth population is a potential demographic dividend, which means if harnessed correctly, it can contribute significantly to economic growth. A youthful population provides an opportunity to focus on education and skill development, creating a highly skilled workforce that can meet the demands of various industries. Innovation and Entrepreneurship:  The youth are often more open to innovation, new technologies, and entrepreneurship. They can drive the development of new industries and start-ups, fostering economic diversification. Also, with a significant portion of India’s population engaged in agriculture, youth involvement in modernizing and optimizing farming practices through technology and sustainable methods can lead to increased agricultural productivity. Digital Connectivity: India’s youth are tech-savvy and can play a crucial role in adopting and promoting digital technologies, contributing to the growth of the digital economy. Social Change and Activism:  Young people are often at the forefront of social and political change. They can drive positive social movements, advocate for change, and raise awareness about critical issues.

Practice Question:  Despite the significant contributions of youth in various sectors, their representation in politics remains disproportionately low. Discuss the challenges that hinder greater youth participation in politics and suggest measures to address these issues, with a particular focus on the role of nepotism and dynastic politics. (250 words/15 m)