Youth poised to drive social change & progress: Experts

Bengaluru, NT Bureau: As India celebrates International Youth Day on August 12, the spotlight turns to the critical role young people play in societal progress.

With 46.9 per cent of India's population under 25, the country stands on the cusp of harnessing this youth power for sustainable and inclusive development.

Experts emphasise the growing opportunities within the social development sector, which not only promises financial success but also significant contributions to societal betterment. India's social development sector has evolved rapidly, with a growing emphasis on balancing economic progress with social impact.

This shift has drawn the attention of corporations, investors, academia, and governments alike. According to a recent report, India's social sector spending has grown annually by 13 per cent, reaching approximately Rs 23 trillion ($280 billion) in FY 2023, accounting for 8.3 per cent of the GDP.

This growth is creating vast opportunities, particularly in areas such as impact investment funds, ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) companies, and government initiatives.

Dr Kalpana Sankar, Chairperson and Managing Trustee of Hand in Hand India, notes that the sector offers diverse career paths.