The youth of Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) hold the key to the region’s future, representing a vast reservoir of talent and potential. With nearly 70% of the population under the age of 35, empowering this demographic could lead to transformative socio-economic growth. The region has seen various initiatives aimed at skill development, entrepreneurship, and employment, yet many young people still face significant challenges that hinder their progress. Issues like limited job opportunities, inadequate skill training, and a lack of exposure to emerging industries remain prevalent, highlighting the need for a more comprehensive approach to youth empowerment. Prime Minister Modi’s vision of a ‘Naya Jammu and Kashmir’ emphasizes the crucial role of youth in shaping the future of the region. Under this vision, several schemes have been introduced to provide young people with opportunities to thrive. Programs such as the Prime Minister’s Employment Generation Programme (PMEGP), Start-up India, and the Skill India Mission have opened new avenues, enabling youth to develop skills, start their own businesses, and explore diverse career paths. These initiatives have laid a strong foundation, but there is still a long way to go to meet the aspirations of young people across J&K. One of the key areas that require urgent attention is the strengthening of educational institutions. Improving the quality of education is essential for creating a skilled and knowledgeable workforce. Investments should be made to upgrade the infrastructure of schools, colleges, and universities, ensuring that students receive an education that prepares them for the demands of the modern job market. Additionally, new vocational training centers should be established across the region to address the skill gap. These centers can equip the youth with practical skills in fields such as information technology, healthcare, tourism, and agriculture, making them more competitive and ready for employment. Encouraging local entrepreneurship is another critical aspect of youth empowerment. Initiatives that support start-ups and small businesses can help unleash the creativity and innovation of young minds. By providing access to funding, mentorship, and business development resources, the government can nurture a vibrant ecosystem where entrepreneurs can thrive. Start-ups driven by young people not only contribute to economic growth but also create job opportunities, helping to address the issue of unemployment in J&K. Moreover, creating a conducive environment for business and employment is essential to retain local talent and curb the issue of brain drain. Many young people leave J&K in search of better opportunities, leading to a loss of skilled professionals who could otherwise contribute to the region’s development. By fostering a sense of belonging and pride among the youth, and by offering them ample opportunities to grow, J&K can reverse this trend and encourage young professionals to stay and contribute to their community. The journey towards empowering the youth of J&K is a long and challenging one, but with consistent efforts, it is possible to create a new generation that is well-equipped, confident, and ready to lead the region towards a prosperous future. By addressing the core issues of education, skill development, and entrepreneurship, J&K can unlock the full potential of its youth, paving the way for sustained economic growth and social progress. The dream of a ‘Naya Jammu and Kashmir’ can become a reality when the youth are empowered to shape their own future, transforming the region into a hub of innovation, resilience, and success.
