India recently reached a pivotal moment in its journey towards a brighter future by leveraging the potential of its youth. Engaging young people in democratic processes is crucial, as their active participation can unlock significant opportunities for national advancement. Despite being the largest demographic group, youth involvement in democratic processes has historically been low. Data from the Election Commission of India revealed that voter turnout among first-time voters aged 18-19 in the 2019 General Elections was markedly lower than the national average. This gap highlighted a critical issue in youth engagement with democratic institutions, posing a threat to the long-term sustainability of democracy. However, young voices are beginning to transform democratic practices by introducing fresh ideas, advocating for change, and participating actively in decision-making processes.
Organized by Grassroots Research and Advocacy Movement (GRAAM), the Hanns Seidel Foundation India, the Department of Studies in Social Work at the University of Mysore, and GSS Projects, Mysuru, the International Youth Day 2024 event, “Yuvotsava 2024,” underscored the role of digital pathways in empowering youth. Held on August 27, 2024, in Mysuru, Yuvotsava 2024 featured a range of activities, including a street play competition, panel discussions, and poster and quiz competitions. These events were designed to amplify youth voices on community issues, encourage participatory governance, and inspire sustainable development. The initiative highlighted the essential role of digital innovation in facilitating youth engagement and fostering a sustainable future.
To address the engagement gap, several key strategies emerged as crucial. Civic engagement programs and mentorship initiatives, such as the ‘Youth for Governance (Y4G)’ fellowship, were emphasized for their role in educating young people about their democratic rights and responsibilities while guiding them through political systems. The development of digital platforms and apps simplified access to political information, voter registration, and civic activities. Additionally, advocacy workshops and community service projects equipped youth with the skills needed to advocate for their causes and understand the impact of local governance. In celebration of International Youth Day on August 12, 2024, GRAAM, the Hanns Seidel Foundation, and other partners successfully hosted “Yuvotsava” on August 27, 2024. This event showcased a variety of activities aimed at amplifying youth voices and promoting sustainable development through digital innovation.
