In the past, I experienced long days of hartals, curfews, and repeated closures of schools and colleges. Even the labourers were unable to step out for work; their entire day's livelihood was lost as the markets remained shut, and uncertainty gripped the city. Life used to hang in suspension, and the aspirations of the youth kept getting restricted. Chances to study or work outside the state were scarce, and experience with national or international platforms was limited.

Since 2019, times have changed considerably. Now, curfews, shutdowns, and interruptions in education are next to nil. Students are going to classes regularly, institutions are running smoothly, and businesses are operational. Youth can now pursue higher education, training, or professional exposure not just within their own country but even worldwide. This change has provided opportunities for a new generation that is keen to learn, innovate, and contribute. For the first time in years, Kashmiri youth are witnessing freedom, normalcy, and opportunity that enable them to aspire more than ever before.
The youth of Jammu and Kashmir have had opportunities offered to them like never before since 2019, undoubtedly due to the investment in education, infrastructure, and good governance, which has created an enabling environment for personal and professional growth. With the rise of entrepreneurship and innovation as positive focal points in Jammu and Kashmir, the youth have responded with remarkable entrepreneurship and innovation in the form of technology, agriculture, handicrafts, tourism, renewable energy, and green initiatives. Initiatives such as Mission Youth, Project YUVA and the Mumkin Scheme have been significant contributors, providing mentorship, training and funding for young innovators to take their ideas to market successfully.
Education has also seen a remarkable improvement. New universities, colleges, and specialized institutions are opening to provide access to quality higher education. Improved infrastructure in already established universities, state-of-the-art laboratories, digital classrooms, and research institutes are equipping students with the necessary skills for facing a competitive world. Technical education has been increased by the opening of IITs, medical colleges, and specialized colleges that impart courses in engineering, health care, and sciences and equip youth with skills as per upcoming industries.
Schools are also getting contemporary with modern curricula, computer facilities, libraries, and extracurricular activities. Initiatives to incorporate digital literacy, innovation, and soft skills in education make the students equipped for global challenges. These measures are building a generation of young people who are able to think critically, solve problems, and lead, enabling them to not only define their own futures but also the future of the region.
Social, Civic, Political, and Sports Involvement: In addition to school-going education, the youth are increasingly engaging in social, cultural, and political life. Cultural events, sports initiatives, youth clubs, and volunteer activities are opportunities for leadership, teamwork, and civic involvement. Civic spaces are creating opportunities for youth voice in local governance and decision-making. Volunteerism, social entrepreneurship, and community leadership programs instill a sense of responsibility and accountability, building confidence and initiative among youth.
Most notably, young people are now involved in politics and elections. Voter turnout among youths has risen, and that of women has increased phenomenally. Earlier, women were meant to keep quiet, within the four walls of their houses, but now they are participating in civil life, running for elections, and influencing political discourse. This politically engaged new generation of both male and female youth is restructuring democratic participation and shaping the course of local, state, and national governance.
Sports have become another significant arena of youth success. Young Jammu and Kashmir sportsmen and sportswomen are competing and representing themselves at state and country levels, in games from cricket, football, and hockey to athletics, skiing, and adventure sports. Sporting platforms are now arenas of talent discovery, self-improvement, and confidence. Sports success not only brings pride to communities but also reinforces discipline, teamwork, and resilience traits which translate to education, business, and civic involvement.
Infrastructure development and connectivity have further augmented prospects for young people. Improved roads, railways, and communication networks, complemented by credible power and water supply, are connecting far-flung areas with urban centers. Enhanced healthcare infrastructure through new healthcare colleges and hospitals increases access to quality medical facilities and professional training for future healthcare professionals. Such development reduces regional discrepancies and facilitates educational, healthcare, sports, and employment opportunities, even in border and rural areas.
The Road Ahead: The youth of Jammu and Kashmir are positively shaping the future with their energy, creativity and determination. They are applying digital literacy, critical thinking and innovation and are linking school learning with practice and skills obtained through vocational education, internships and exposure to national and international organisations. New-age educational institutions like IITs, medical colleges, and enhanced universities are empowering youngsters to get ready for technologically oriented and professional lives.
Entrepreneurship has been an important area through which young people have been leading change. Young entrepreneurs are starting businesses in renewable energy, eco-tourism, organic agriculture, ICT, and crafts, and getting access to mentorship, finance, and market opportunities. Women and rural youth are playing a growing leadership role, making growth inclusive and equitable.
Young people are also changing the working world through gaining new skills, adopting new industry requirements, and seeking purposeful careers. Their involvement in sports, the arts, and community projects indicates a focus on overall well-being and social contribution. By taking the lead in overcoming issues such as loneliness and substance abuse, they are building stronger, more resilient communities.
Youth Participation and Governance: Youth voices must be included in policymaking and governance. Youth councils, civic forums, and leadership programs are platforms that facilitate active participation and ownership. Youth involvement in decision-making regarding their communities ensures policies are realistic, appropriate, and future-oriented. Enabled youth can be drivers of social change, promoting innovation, peace, and development across the region.
Jammu and Kashmir where every young person irrespective of region, gender, or background has access to quality education, healthcare, sports, dignified work, and entrepreneurial freedom; where innovation, peace, and sustainability go hand in hand; and where youth lead the journey toward a prosperous, inclusive, and confident future.

Email:----------------------vadaiekashmir@gmail.com