Indian Youth as Strategic Diplomatic Capital: Leveraging Demographic Dividend for Global Influence

CONTEXT : In an era of ageing populations in China, Europe, and North America, India’s youth demographic stands out as a powerful asset in global geopolitics. With nearly 27% of its population aged between 15 and 29, India boasts the world’s largest youth cohort—over 400 million young people—offering a unique strategic advantage.

Why India’s Youth Are a Geopolitical Asset

• Demographic Dividend: India’s median age of 28 years (compared to 38 in the US and 39 in China) ensures a youthful, dynamic workforce well into 2050.
• Human Capital Powerhouse: Over 40 million students in higher education fuel innovation, tech leadership, and global competitiveness.
• Labour Force Growth: Around 8 million youth enter the job market annually, strengthening India’s position in manufacturing, IT, and services.
• Soft Power Potential: From cricket to cinema, yoga to startups, Indian youth are shaping global perceptions through cultural diplomacy and digital influence.
• Diaspora Diplomacy: Skilled Indian youth abroad influence policy, drive innovation, and act as bridges in international relations.

Youth in Global Diplomacy: Emerging Roles

• Digital Diplomacy: India’s tech-savvy youth position the country as a leader in digital governance and AI innovation.
• Research & Science Diplomacy: Participation in global R&D networks boosts India’s credibility in climate, health, and space cooperation.
• Consumer Market Influence: A rising youth-driven domestic market attracts foreign investment and trade partnerships.

Challenges Limiting Youth Potential

Despite this potential, critical barriers remain:

• Skill Gap: Only 46% of graduates are considered employable; vocational training lags.
• Gender & Regional Inequality: Women and rural youth face limited access to education and global mobility.
• Visa Restrictions: Geopolitical tensions and strict immigration policies hinder international exchanges.
• Low R&D Investment: India spends just 0.7% of GDP on research, limiting high-tech global integration.
• Exclusion from Policy: Youth are underrepresented in foreign policy and multilateral decision-making.

Way Forward: Building Youth-Centric Diplomacy

1. Boost Skill Development: Expand STEM education and industry-aligned vocational training.
2. Promote Inclusive Growth: Bridge gender, income, and regional gaps to widen youth participation.
3. Strengthen Global Research Ties: Increase R&D funding and link Indian universities with global innovation hubs.
4. Enhance Mobility: Negotiate youth-friendly visa agreements and expand scholarship programs like ICCR and Fulbright.
5. Institutional Inclusion: Establish Youth Advisory Councils in the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) and at UN forums.