This chapter examines the aspirations of Indian youth through the lens of cultural values, economic change and developmental theory. It explores how young people in India navigate personal ambitions while balancing family expectations in a rapidly changing world. Drawing on Indic frameworks, the chapter highlights the unique ways Indian youth define success and well-being. It synthesizes research on educational, career and family goals across diverse socioeconomic and gender contexts, showing how aspirations are shaped by both structural realities and cultural ideals. The chapter also considers the influence of social media, shifting labor markets and post-pandemic uncertainty on youth trajectories. Ultimately, it argues for supportive ecosystems—within families, schools and policy—that help youth pursue meaningful and grounded life paths, turning India’s demographic strength into a force for inclusive development.

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Aspirations and Goals in Transition: Youth in Contemporary India

  • Shagufa Kapadia,
  • Jigisha Gala,
  • Sumana Sri,
  • Anirban Choudhury

摘要

This chapter examines the aspirations of Indian youth through the lens of cultural values, economic change and developmental theory. It explores how young people in India navigate personal ambitions while balancing family expectations in a rapidly changing world. Drawing on Indic frameworks, the chapter highlights the unique ways Indian youth define success and well-being. It synthesizes research on educational, career and family goals across diverse socioeconomic and gender contexts, showing how aspirations are shaped by both structural realities and cultural ideals. The chapter also considers the influence of social media, shifting labor markets and post-pandemic uncertainty on youth trajectories. Ultimately, it argues for supportive ecosystems—within families, schools and policy—that help youth pursue meaningful and grounded life paths, turning India’s demographic strength into a force for inclusive development.