Gen Z Aspirations, Paper Leaks And Youth Unemployment Fuel Intense Political Debate

A panel discussion at the India Today Mumbai Conclave focused on the concerns and political representation of Gen Z in India. Student activist Devendra Mahato highlighted youth anger regarding recurring paper leaks, systemic recruitment irregularities, and low salaries for educated graduates, demanding accountability and guarantees rather than mere political assurances. Nationalist Congress Party Sharadchandra Pawar leader Anish Gawande stressed the importance of student unity and democratic accountability, noting severe graduate unemployment and urging institutional faith restoration. In response, Bharatiya Janata Party representative Pradeep Bhandari presented startup growth figures to highlight opportunities in the country, arguing that educational reforms are actively being addressed through expert committees and cautioning against selective criticism over paper leak occurrences across different states. The session examined the evolving political expectations of youth leading up to 2029.