Chennai: Prime Minister Narendra Modi has urged India’s Gen Z to think boldly, pursue innovative ideas and contribute to solving global challenges, describing the present as a crucial period of opportunity for the country’s young population.
Addressing the golden jubilee celebrations of Jaigopal Garodia Hindu Vidyalaya Matriculation Higher Secondary School at the Chennai Trade Centre in Nandambakkam, Modi said the ideas and solutions developed by young Indians would play a significant role in shaping the future of both India and the world.
“The world is looking for solutions, and you have the potential to provide these solutions,” the Prime Minister said, encouraging young people to envision their future on a broader scale and make the most of the opportunities available to them.
Referring to his parliamentary constituency of Varanasi, Modi described himself as a representative of Kashi before invoking the works of celebrated Tamil poet Subramania Bharati, whose writings championed courage and fearlessness.
He encouraged students to believe in their abilities, develop original ideas and pursue ambitious goals without fear. Modi also stressed that India offers immense opportunities for young people to contribute to national development.
The Prime Minister’s address comes amid heightened political tensions over youth protests in Delhi against the Special Intensive Revision of electoral rolls. Leaders of the Cockroach Janta Party, a youth group associated with the demonstrations, were detained ahead of a planned protest, while thousands of people faced detention during the security restrictions.
The protests have raised concerns among young people over electoral transparency and the handling of public demonstrations. The Supreme Court has also addressed restrictions imposed in Delhi, calling for the removal of barricades unless absolutely necessary and examining the restrictions on public gatherings.
Modi’s appeal to young Indians comes as employment opportunities, transparency and political accountability remain important concerns among sections of the country’s youth.
With India’s young population increasingly influential in public debate, the government’s engagement with Gen Z is emerging as a significant political and social priority. The Prime Minister’s message in Chennai placed innovation, fearless thinking and youth participation at the centre of India’s development ambitions.
