Harnessing youth potential
Editor,
The editorial “Prisoners of the past” (ST 1st February 2024)made interesting reading. Mahatma Gandhi said, “The past belongs to us, but we do not belong to the past. We belong to the present. We are makers of the future, but we do not belong to the future,” this reflects his philosophy of living in the present and taking responsibility for shaping the future. This quote emphasizes the importance of learning from the past without being bound by it and focusing on the present to create a better future. Gandhi often spoke about the need for continuous self-improvement and the importance of taking action in the present to bring about positive change. This quote encapsulates his belief in the power of the present moment and the role individuals play in shaping their destiny. This is more important for the youths of today. The definition of “youth” can vary depending on the context and organization defining it. A commonly accepted age range for youth is between 15 and 24 years. This definition is used by organizations such as the United Nations and the World Health Organization. As of the latest available data, the youth population in Meghalaya aged between 15 and 24 years is approximately 2.97 million or 29.7 lakhs as the editorial have rightly put it.
According to the Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS) conducted from July 2023 to June 2024 by the National Sample Survey Organization, Government of India the unemployment rate in the Himalayan states of Nagaland is 7.8%, Jammu and Kashmir 6.7%, Meghalaya 6.6%, Manipur 6.5%, Arunachal Pradesh 6.5%, Himachal Pradesh 6.2%, Ladakh 5.6%, Uttarakhand 4.9%, Assam 2.6%, Mizoram 2.4% and Tripura 1.8%.
This youth unemployment in Meghalaya at 6.6% translates in absolute terms to 1.96 lakh unemployed. The youthful demographics of Meghalaya are quite promising. With over half of the population under 30, the state has significant potential for growth and development. This young population can drive innovation, entrepreneurship and economic progress. However, it also means that there needs to be a strong focus on education, skill development and job creation to harness this potential effectively. Leveraging Meghalaya’s youthful population for growth involves several key strategies.
1. Education and Skill Development: Investing in quality education and vocational training programs to equip the youth with skills needed for the job market. This includes promoting STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) education and digital literacy.
2. Entrepreneurship and Innovation: Encouraging entrepreneurship by providing support for startups, including access to funding, mentorship and incubation centers. Creating an environment that fosters innovation can lead to the development of new industries and job opportunities.
3. Job Creation: Promoting industries that have the potential to create a large number of jobs, such as tourism, agriculture and manufacturing. Developing infrastructure and policies that attract investments in these sectors can help generate employment.
4. Healthcare and well-being: Ensuring access to quality healthcare services to maintain a healthy workforce. This includes preventive healthcare, mental health support and addressing issues like malnutrition.
5. Infrastructure development: Investing in infrastructure such as roads, transportation and digital connectivity to support economic activities and improve the quality of life for the population.
6. Youth Engagement: Involving young people in decision-making processes and governance to ensure their voices are heard and their needs are addressed. This can lead to more inclusive and effective policies.
7. Sustainable Development: Promoting sustainable practices in industries and communities to ensure long-term growth without depleting natural resources. This includes initiatives in renewable energy, waste management and conservation.
By focusing on these areas, Meghalaya can harness the potential of its youthful population to drive economic growth and development.
Yours etc;
VK Lyngdoh,
Via email
Governance Unfiltered: The Future of Transparent Leadership
Editor,
It’s about time we witness a governance model that doesn’t hide behind closed doors but instead steps into the public arena—raw and real. I’m absolutely loving this change! Sangma’s decision to address the people of the state through live press conferences on Facebook, surrounded by our journalists, is nothing short of revolutionary. This bold move disrupts the age-old tradition of opaque leadership and places the power of truth directly into the hands of the people.
In a world where misinformation spreads like wildfire—especially online—Sangma’s willingness to speak directly to the masses is the ultimate antidote. No longer can shadowy figures behind desks and hidden basements dictate false narratives. This is transparency on steroids, and boy, am I impressed! With every word spoken and every question answered in real-time, the air of distrust surrounding governmental decisions begins to lift. In an age of political theatrics and smoke-filled backroom offices, this is not just refreshing; it is essential and revolutionary.
We have long suffered the consequences of a disengaged government and disillusioned citizens. Governance has been reduced to a game of whispers, speculation, and half-truths. But today, we have a leader who shuns the podiums of silence and welcomes the scrutiny of a public that deserves to be informed. This is leadership at its finest—unafraid, unfiltered, and unapologetically transparent.
But let us be clear: it’s not just about broadcasting policies; it’s about reshaping the relationship between the people and their government. This is not a one-way street where we sit passively, listening to speeches that leave us empty, confused, or even more in the dark because of political hidden agendas. This is about interaction—real interaction—where citizens are not just bystanders but active participants in shaping the future of their society. It is time for us to engage as responsible citizens, demand more, hold our leaders accountable, and never again accept being left in the dark. Say ‘NO’ to nodding our heads like sheep. Be an awakened, informed, and educated citizen. The choice is yours.
To every other leader still hiding behind the veil of bureaucracy and politics: take note. This is how it’s done. Sangma has shown us the way forward—a path where governance is not confined to the stagnant halls of power but pulses through the very streets and hearts of the people. It is time we break free from the outdated, inaccessible political games of the past. This is the future of leadership: accessible, open, and accountable.
Let us make sure this moment does not slip through our fingers. Citizens must stand up—not only to be heard but to listen, to question, and to demand more. The foundation of any thriving democracy is the active participation of its people. Conrad K. Sangma has laid the foundation—will we pick it up and keep the momentum going? It is time for us to engage, because this is democracy in its rawest, most powerful form.
Yours etc.,
Bahunlang Pde,
Via email