Youth Unemployment in India: Structural Challenges and Policy Responses

Abstract

A major socioeconomic problem that is jeopardizing the country's long-term growth prospects and demographic dividend is the youth employment rate. Over 65% of India's population is under 35, putting the country at a turning point where the aspirations of millions of young people collide with a shortage of employment prospects.

This study explores the causes, consequences, and potential solutions of youth unemployment with a focus on factors such as skills mismatch, a lack of job creation in critical industries, and structural issues in the education and vocational training systems.  The study highlights the need for creative ways to improve alignment between educational outcomes and labor market demands and increase youth participation in the workforce.