Future of Youth in Jammu and Kashmir

Youth transformation is not a trend – it is a revolution. Let us nurture it with education, empower it with opportunities, and guide it with values.

Dr Noour Ali Zehgeer

India is one of the youngest nations globally, with over 50% of its population under 25 years and 65% under 35 years. This demographic strength is a major driver of economic growth and cultural shifts. The generations in this world have different approaches and address their problems according to the age they are into. The tackling of a problem in 2000 is not the same in 2025, where our youth is more educated towards world and the opportunities the world holds for them. The youth has power in India to change any election results as they are in huge numbers and so is youth in Jammu and Kashmir. The latest UT elections have shown the power of youth who opted for best option for their brighter future and better life.

Youth today are more aware, more vocal, and more connected. They champion equality, mental health, and climate action. They are breaking stereotypes and building inclusive communities. This is not just transformation—it is empowerment.

We live in an era of unprecedented transformation. Technology has redefined how we learn, work, and connect. Social norms are evolving, and opportunities are expanding in ways unimaginable a decade ago. India stands at the centre of this change. Education is no longer about memorizing facts; it’s about building skills—critical thinking, adaptability, and digital fluency. Our youth are embracing these changes, but we must ensure that every young person has access to quality education and training that matches the demands of the future. From start-up’s to social enterprises, young Indians are rewriting the rules of business. They are creating jobs, not just seeking them. They are innovating in technology, sustainability, and social impact. This entrepreneurial spirit is the heartbeat of a new India. Youth are champions of inclusion, diversity, and equality. They are breaking stereotypes, advocating for mental health, and leading climate action. Through social media and global networks, they amplify voices that were once unheard, creating a more connected and compassionate world and Jammu and Kashmir youth is no exception.

Education Growth

• J&K has seen a significant rise in higher education enrolment over the past two decades, with many new colleges and universities established across the region.
• This has created a large pool of graduates, postgraduates, engineers, MBAs, and even PhDs. Education is widely viewed as a pathway to stability and opportunity.

Employment Crisis

• Despite educational progress, unemployment remains a major issue:
  o 3.61 lakh educated unemployed youth were registered with the Employment Department as of September 2025 (2.08 lakh in Kashmir Division, 1.52 lakh in Jammu Division).
  o Government data shows 3.70 lakh unemployed youth registered on the official employment portal by January 2025.
• Gender disparity persists: about 65% male and 35% female among the unemployed.
• The paradox: education boom without employment boom, leading to frustration and migration.
  Government Initiatives
• Mission Youth and related schemes:
  o Mumkin Scheme: Livelihood opportunities in the transport sector.
  o Tejaswini Scheme: Empowering young women.
  o Parvaaz Scheme: Support for competitive exams.
  o Other programs include entrepreneurship support and skill development.
• Job Fairs: 246 fairs held in 3 years, with 4,893 on-the-spot placements and 6,640 individuals recommended for skill training.
• Mission YUVA: Identified over 5.58 lakh potential entrepreneurs, but 62% remain unemployed, showing mixed results.

Industrial Push

• J&K’s new industrial policy has attracted ₹25,000 crore investment proposals, with ₹10,000 crore projects already operational.
• Private sector participation is increasing, creating new jobs and entrepreneurship opportunities.

Key Challenges

• Skill mismatch: Higher education does not guarantee employment; many graduates lack industry-relevant skills.
• Public sector dependency: Shrinking government jobs have left many aspirants without options.
• Socio-economic barriers: Gender norms, mobility issues, and limited private sector absorption exacerbate unemployment.

A world where the next big idea, the next breakthrough, the next movement for justice doesn’t come from boardrooms or governments—but from a teenager with a smartphone. That world isn’t the future. It’s happening right now.

Youth in J&K have made significant strides in education and entrepreneurship awareness, but unemployment – especially among educated youth—remains a critical challenge. Government schemes and industrial investments are promising, but their impact is still evolving. Yet, challenges remain universal—unemployment, skill gaps, and socio-economic disparities. If we fail to invest in youth today, the promise of tomorrow will fade. Our collective responsibility is to empower them with education, opportunities, and values that transcend borders. This generation is fearless. They speak up for equality. They fight for mental health awareness. They lead climate strikes. They are connected, informed, and unapologetically bold. And through social media, their voices echo across continents.

Yet, challenges remain. Unemployment, skill gaps, and socio-economic disparities cannot be ignored. If we fail to act now, our demographic dividend could become a demographic burden. The time to invest in youth is today.

In conclusion, youth transformation is not a trend—it is a revolution. Let us nurture it with education, empower it with opportunities, and guide it with values. Because when the youth rise, the nation rises.
(Straight Talk Communications Exclusively)