A vast population of young people in India embraces a deluge of democratic reforms. Since the rise of social media, it has become a significant factor in driving political and social empowerment among young people. The youth vote from 58% in 2009 grew to 68% in 2014, according to Lokniti CSDS studies which surpassed average voter turnout during these periods.
Although stagnant growth of 67.4% during the 2019 Lok Sabha elections led to efforts like the Systematic Voter’s Education and Electoral Participation (SVEEP) aimed to engage and educate voters, highlighting the importance of youth participation in shaping political outcomes.
Today, social media plays a vital role in educating and sparking interest in political and social issues among youngsters. Social media has become a new tool for disseminating and accessing information. With the internet becoming more accessible everywhere, young people are moving away from traditional TV and radio to explore the vast world of new media. This change shows how technology is reshaping how youths get information and connect with others.
Youth Political Engagement
Over time, there has been a growing trend of youth engagement in political and social issues. A common motivation is the desire to advocate for multi-dimensional development, justice, and political stability, encouraging young people to deepen their political knowledge and raise their voices against injustice. A noticeable trend towards political education among youth, who recognize themselves as informed citizens, is fostering greater youth participation in politics and society.
Impact of social media on youth political awareness:
According to the survey, Indian youth do not utilise social media as a mobilization tool for political matters. Around 30% of youth are willing to share their political and societal opinions on social media. Despite primarily perceiving social media as a platform for entertainment and communication.
Despite some youngsters initially viewing politics as insignificant, there is a growing number actively participating and expressing their views on various political issues. As they become more engaged, they gradually recognize the importance of politics in their daily lives. With the youth population comprising 40% of India’s demographics, aged between 13 to 35 years with an average age of 29, it’s notable that 33.4% of them are active users of social media. This indicates a significant portion of India’s population, approximately 470 million people, using social media platforms.
The rise of young leaders:
It is crucial to have young leaders to involve and engage the youth in political and social dimensions. As the famous quotation goes, ‘new problems need new solutions,’ and this applies to the political scenario as well. A new generation can offer innovative solutions to old problems. A young leader can proactively work for the multidimensional development of the nation. The youth population of a country correlates with young leaders understanding the needs, situations, trends, and demands of youngsters accurately.
In a study, it was revealed that despite over 65% of Indians being under the age of 35, the average age of Lok Sabha MPs over the last two decades has consistently remained above 50 years. This notable disparity indicates that only approximately 1.5% of Lok Sabha members fall within the age group of 25-30 years.
As per the Election Commission of India, CEC Rajiv Kumar on Saturday revealed the latest data for Lok Sabha Elections 2024. As per CEC Rajiv Kumar, there are a total of 96.8 crore electorates out of which 1.8 crore first-time voters (18-19 years), 19. 74 crore young voters (20 to 29 years old), 49.7 crore male, 47.1 crore female, 82 lakhs (85 plus age voters), 48,000 transgender, 88.4 lakhs (PwD), 19.1 lakhs (Service Electors), 2.18 lakhs (Centenarians).
Youth empowerment through political education:
An empowered youth can make the way towards an empowered nation. Political literacy among youngsters is a ‘weapon of peace’ for the overall growth of society. Youth can figure out the odds in society, the propaganda of politicians, and the policies of benefit for people.