The future of Jammu and Kashmir rests squarely on the shoulders of its youth. In a region that has seen its fair share of political and economic upheavals, it is now imperative to shift focus towards building a generation that is self-sufficient, skilled, and empowered. The need of the hour is not just employment but employability — and more importantly, entrepreneurship. The youth of J&K must be transformed from job seekers into job creators. While the government has launched several schemes like Skill India, Start-Up India, and MUMKIN to encourage skill development and self-employment, the on-ground impact remains uneven. There is a glaring disconnect between training modules and the actual market demand. Vocational training needs to be aligned with modern industry standards, and local youth should be trained in sectors that have both national and global relevance — such as IT, digital marketing, tourism, renewable energy, and agriculture technology. In the context of J&K, traditional strengths like handicrafts, horticulture, and tourism must be revitalized with modern tools and marketing strategies. A Kashmiri artisan or a Pahari fruit grower should not only know how to produce but also how to brand and sell their products across India and abroad. That’s where digital literacy, e-commerce training, and financial inclusion become essential. The role of educational institutions also demands a serious rethink. Colleges and universities must not remain mere degree-distributing bodies. They must evolve into innovation hubs, entrepreneurship incubators, and skill-development centers. Every youth passing out should be equipped with at least one employable skill beyond academic learning. Moreover, the administration must ensure a robust support system through mentorship, interest-free loans, market linkage, and legal aid for start-ups. Women and marginalized youth, especially in remote areas, must be given special attention. The government, civil society, and private sector must collaborate to build a self-reliant youth force that can lead the socio-economic transformation of the region. The time has come to look beyond the government jobs dream that has long dominated the aspirations of J&K’s young population. Instead, we must instill in them the confidence and capability to carve out their own paths. A self-sufficient youth is not just an asset for their family but a cornerstone for a peaceful, progressive, and prosperous Jammu and Kashmir.
