Faissal Farooq Mir,
Electing young leaders is no longer a choice—it’s a necessity, especially as Jammu and Kashmir prepares for its upcoming assembly elections. With a population of 1.4 billion, India is the second-most populous country in the world, and over 50% of our people are under 25, with more than 65% under 35. UNFPA projections indicate that India will continue to have one of the youngest populations globally until 2030. Yet, despite these statistics, youth representation in politics remains shockingly low.
According to Census 2011, about 11% of India’s population is in the 25–30 age group, but in the 2019 Lok Sabha, only 1.5% of MPs fell within this bracket. Furthermore, over 25% of the population is between 25 and 40, yet this group makes up only 12% of the 17th Lok Sabha. These numbers reveal a glaring under-representation of youth in our parliament. This begs the question: why are young people not more visible in our political landscape? Are they unwilling to join the political machinery, or are we, as voters, failing to elect them to power? While both factors play a role, it’s undeniable that our political system remains dominated by dynastic politics.
Most young leaders in today’s political arena come from established political families, which often limits their perspectives and ties them to family-oriented thinking. Meanwhile, young people with innovative ideas and a genuine desire to serve the public struggle to break into politics due to a lack of connections or prominence. This reality stifles the creative and transformative potential that our youth could bring to the country’s governance.
The youth of Jammu and Kashmir, like their peers across India, are energized, passionate, and full of ideas to create positive change. They are ready to address critical issues such as global warming, climate change, wildlife preservation, poverty, crime, drug abuse, and corruption. They want to correct the wrongs that previous generations have left unchallenged. Their potential to drive development in Jammu and Kashmir—and beyond—is enormous.
For too long, politics has been viewed as an old man’s game, but this is a misconception that needs to be shattered. A sexagenarian politician cannot grasp the aspirations of Gen-Z as a young leader can. In our rapidly advancing world, we need leaders who are not only aware of what the future may hold but are also capable of shaping it for the better. Young, dynamic leadership is not just an asset; it’s crucial for the progress and nation-building of Jammu and Kashmir.
This brings us to the new reservation policy in Jammu and Kashmir—a policy that has stirred significant controversy and debate. It’s a policy that, if left unchecked, could deepen divisions and perpetuate inequality. Young leaders, unencumbered by the biases of the past, are more likely to challenge and overturn such discriminatory practices. They have the vision and courage to advocate for policies that promote fairness, inclusivity, and justice for all, ensuring that the future of Jammu and Kashmir is one of unity and progress.
As the assembly elections draw near, the people of Jammu and Kashmir must rise to the occasion and break free from the shackles of legacy politics. We need leaders who represent the energy, enthusiasm, and aspirations of the youth. Leaders who will fight for our rights, challenge outdated norms, and build a future that reflects the true spirit of our people.
It’s time to dismantle the juggernaut of old politics and make way for new, youthful leaders who will rise to the level of political recognition and, in turn, uplift the people of Jammu and Kashmir. The future is bright, and it’s time to show the world that Jammu and Kashmir is ready to embrace it with youthful vigor and determination. We are coming, and we will not be stopped!
