Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Saturday described India’s youth as the country’s “greatest strength”, saying their potential is unmatched globally, and raised concerns over unemployment, exam paper leaks, declining manufacturing and the impact of artificial intelligence on jobs.
Addressing the ‘Chhatron Ki Goonj’ programme at KP Ground in Prayagraj, Gandhi said, “You are the power and pride of India. When I say this, I am talking about every Indian citizen.”
“This evening I want to speak to you about dard (pain), data, and daulat (wealth),” he said.
The Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha said India’s 40 crore youths represent its “greatest strength”. Referring to the global focus on countries such as the US, China and Russia, Gandhi said, “India's youths are unparalleled.”
He also flagged the growing devaluation of educational qualifications, saying, “Today, education certificates have no meaning in India because they cannot give you a job.”
Gandhi said all doors of employment were “closed” in the country and cited the decline in manufacturing, difficulties in obtaining loans, examination paper leaks and AI-driven job displacement as major challenges facing young people.
Referring to recent student protests across the country, Gandhi said the youth had “lit a light in the darkness” by confronting their fears and, in the process, helped bring about change.
“We will never resort to hatred or violence. We will change the system with love and affection,” Gandhi said, urging young people to follow the same path.
A large number of students and competitive examination aspirants attended the programme despite waterlogging and muddy patches at the venue. Dance performances by rappers from Mumbai were held ahead of Gandhi’s arrival.
The event followed a motorcycle rally organised by the Congress in Prayagraj on Friday, led by Uttar Pradesh Congress president Ajay Rai.
Students at the programme also raised concerns over hostel facilities and problems related to competitive examinations, which they said they wanted to bring to Gandhi’s attention.
(With inputs from PTI)
