Mann Ki Baat: World looking at India with great hope due to ‘youth power’, says PM Modi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi's statement during his 'Mann Ki Baat' address, emphasizing the world's hopeful gaze upon India due to its 'youth power' and highlighting the 'Viksit Bharat Young Leaders Dialogue', offers a crucial insight into India's current policy focus and future aspirations. This address, a monthly radio program since October 3, 2014, serves as a direct communication channel for the Prime Minister to engage with citizens on various issues of national importance, ranging from social causes to policy initiatives. Its significance lies in its ability to disseminate government vision and encourage public participation.

**Background Context and What Happened:** India is often referred to as a 'young nation' due to its substantial youth population. With an estimated 65% of its population under 35 years of age, India possesses the world's largest youth demographic. This demographic dividend, a period when the working-age population is larger than the dependent population, presents an unprecedented opportunity for accelerated economic growth and social development. The PM's statement underscores this potential, positioning India's youth as a key driver for its global standing. The 'Viksit Bharat Young Leaders Dialogue' is presented as a direct response to channel this energy. Its first edition, held last year, aimed to engage young minds in discussions and ideation for achieving the vision of 'Viksit Bharat' (Developed India) by 2047, the centenary of India's independence. This initiative is designed to harness the 'curiosity' and innovative spirit of the youth, making them active participants in national development rather than mere beneficiaries.

**Key Stakeholders Involved:** The primary stakeholders are, of course, the **Government of India**, particularly the Prime Minister's Office (PMO) and ministries like Youth Affairs and Sports, Education, and Skill Development and Entrepreneurship. Their role is to formulate policies, create platforms, and allocate resources to empower the youth. The **Youth of India** themselves are the central stakeholders, whose potential, skills, and aspirations are at the core of this narrative. **Educational Institutions** (schools, colleges, universities) play a vital role in nurturing this potential through quality education and skill development programs. **Civil Society Organizations and NGOs** often work at the grassroots level, complementing government efforts. Lastly, the **International Community** is also a stakeholder, as India's demographic trajectory and its ability to leverage its youth power have global implications for labor markets, economic partnerships, and geopolitical balances.

**Why This Matters for India:** The emphasis on 'youth power' is critical for several reasons. Economically, a large, skilled, and employed youth population can fuel innovation, entrepreneurship, and consumption, driving sustained GDP growth. Socially, an engaged youth can contribute to social reforms, promote inclusivity, and foster a dynamic society. Politically, their participation strengthens democratic processes and ensures representative governance. For India's international relations, a vibrant, educated, and skilled youth workforce enhances its soft power and makes it an attractive destination for investment and collaboration. The 'Viksit Bharat' vision, intertwined with youth engagement, is not just an economic target but a comprehensive national aspiration encompassing social progress, environmental sustainability, and good governance.

**Historical Context and Constitutional Provisions:** India has historically recognized the importance of its youth. Post-independence, policies focused on education and employment. The National Youth Policy, first formulated in 1988 and most recently revised in 2014, outlines a vision for empowering youth to achieve their full potential. Constitutional provisions, though not directly mentioning 'youth power,' lay the groundwork for their development. The Directive Principles of State Policy (DPSP) in Part IV of the Constitution, particularly **Article 39(a)**, directs the State to ensure that citizens, men and women equally, have the right to an adequate means of livelihood. **Article 41** mandates the State to make effective provision for securing the right to work, to education, and to public assistance in cases of unemployment, old age, sickness, and disablement. **Article 46** promotes the educational and economic interests of the weaker sections. These articles implicitly guide policies aimed at youth education, skill development, and employment. Acts like the **Right to Education Act, 2009**, and initiatives like the **National Skill Development Mission (Skill India Mission, 2015)** and the **National Education Policy (NEP) 2020** are concrete steps towards realizing these constitutional ideals by empowering the youth.

**Future Implications:** The future implications are profound. If successfully harnessed, India's youth power can be the engine that propels it to become a developed nation by 2047. This requires sustained investment in education, skill development, healthcare, and creating ample employment opportunities. The 'Viksit Bharat Young Leaders Dialogue' suggests a strategic shift towards participatory governance, where youth are not just beneficiaries but co-creators of national destiny. This approach could foster a sense of ownership and responsibility among young citizens. Challenges such as youth unemployment, underemployment, and skill gaps need to be addressed effectively. Continued focus on initiatives like the 'Viksit Bharat Young Leaders Dialogue' will be crucial in shaping a future where India's demographic dividend translates into a true demographic boon, strengthening its position on the global stage as a responsible and dynamic power.