The changes that take place in society from time to time are not limited to politics or technology, but have a deep impact on human thinking, lifestyle and culture. This is the reason why people born in different years are identified as different "generations". Nowadays, words like "Gen-G" and "Gen Alpha" have become common in schools, colleges and even in the corporate world. But the question is what are these generations, in what ways are their thinking and challenges different and is this difference strengthening the society or creating division?
Generation is actually a group that is born in almost the same time period and experiences similar social and cultural circumstances in their childhood and youth. There is a huge difference in the thinking and lifestyle of the children born during the freedom struggle and the children born in today's digital age. This difference becomes the identity of every generation. The trend of classifying generations started in the beginning of the twentieth century in America and Europe and now it is being adopted all over the world including India.
Many generations have emerged since the beginning of the twentieth century. The "Greatest Generation" born between 1901 and 1927 faced the difficult circumstances of the First World War and the Great Depression. Their lives were full of discipline and sacrifice. After this, people born between 1928 and 1945 were called the "Silent Generation". This was the generation that spent its childhood amid the Second World War, poverty and displacement. In India, this generation witnessed both independence and partition. The generation born between 1946 and 1964 was known as the "Baby Boomers". After the war, the birth rate increased rapidly and the world moved towards reconstruction. In India, these were the people who got the status of independent citizens for the first time and witnessed the era of industrialization and the Green Revolution.
"Generation X" born between 1965 and 1980 grew up with the sound of technological revolution. TV and radio became a part of their lives. In India, this generation witnessed the times of emergency and economic crisis, so it is considered practical and self-reliant. After this, the generation born between 1981 and 1996 was called "Millennials" or "Gen-Y". It witnessed the era of internet and globalization. These youth, full of new ambitions and dreams, took advantage of the IT revolution and mobile technology.
"Generation-Z" born between 1997 and 2012 are called digital natives. These children have made the Internet, smartphones and social media a part of their lives since childhood. They are identified with confidence, creativity and quick thinking, but impatience and competition are also clearly visible in them. After this, children born between 2013 and 2025 are known as "Generation Alpha". These children are growing up in an environment where artificial intelligence, virtual reality and robotics have become a part of everyday life. Their toys are also smart devices and education is becoming completely based on online platforms.
Some special characteristics of Generation-Z differentiate them from others. This is the first generation that created a digital ID since childhood. YouTube, Instagram and Netflix became their choice instead of books and newspapers. They are experts in multitasking, self-reliant and have independent thinking, but their biggest challenge is the lack of ability to concentrate. Comparison on social media affects their mental health and sometimes also creates problems like anxiety and depression.
The future of Generation Alpha will be even more unique. This is the first fully digital native generation in human history. Their toys are robots, education is taking place in virtual classrooms and their playground is the metaverse and augmented reality. They will think globally because they are getting connected platforms to the world since childhood, but at the same time there will be a danger that their connection with the real world will weaken.
Each generation has been different from the last. Baby Boomers valued jobs and stability, Gen-X sought balance, Millennials focused on entrepreneurship and dreams, while Gen-G and Alpha value speed, convenience and instant gratification. This difference sometimes creates a communication gap.
In the Indian context, the impact of generations is even more diverse. Experiences in villages and cities are different. Children in villages are still involved in traditional games and social events, while children in cities are lost in the world of mobiles and laptops. This difference will be even deeper in Gen Alpha. Economic inequality and level of education also increase this gap.
Gen-G and Alpha children will face many challenges. The first challenge is mental health. Constant screen time and social media pressure have given rise to problems like anxiety and depression. The second challenge is social bonding. Relationships are formed in the virtual world, but real relationships weaken. The third challenge is employment uncertainty. Artificial intelligence and automation are eliminating traditional jobs. In such a situation, it will be mandatory for children to learn new skills.
Solutions are also possible to deal with these challenges. Parents should teach children to balance digital and real life. The education system should not be limited to marks only but emphasis should be laid on creativity, collaboration and emotional intelligence. The most important thing is to connect children with nature and society. If the experience of the older generations and the energy of the new generations are combined, then these generations will not only be technically competent but will also become humanly sensitive.
In the end it can be said that Generation-G and Alpha are not just names but the future of society and nation. It is natural for generations to change, but it is important to understand the strength and learnings of each generation. If we are able to combine experience and energy, then society will become balanced and progressive. It is our collective responsibility to give the right direction to the coming generations by making them technically proficient and humanly sensitive.

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