NEET Youth: Demographic Dividend at Risk for Young Women
UPSC / SSC current affairs note · Economy
Why in news
The term 'NEET' (Not in Employment, Education or Training) is being highlighted as a critical indicator of India's demographic dividend being at risk, especially for young women. Recent data shows a high proportion of youth, particularly women, are disengaged from productive activities, threatening economic growth and social development.
Background
India has a large youth population, often cited as a demographic dividend. However, a significant share of youth, especially women, are neither working nor studying, which undermines this potential. The NEET rate is a key metric tracked by organizations like the ILO.
Key facts
NEET stands for Not in Employment, Education or Training.
India's NEET rate is particularly high among young women compared to men.
High NEET rates among women are linked to social norms, lack of job opportunities, and caregiving responsibilities.
The demographic dividend is at risk if a large portion of youth remains disengaged.
NEET youth are more vulnerable to poverty, social exclusion, and skill erosion.
The burden of NEET status falls disproportionately on young women in India.
Prelims pointers
- NEET: Not in Employment, Education or Training
- Demographic dividend: economic growth potential from a young population
- ILO: International Labour Organization tracks NEET rates
- India's youth bulge: large proportion of population aged 15-29
Mains angles
- Discuss the socio-economic factors contributing to high NEET rates among young women in India.
- Critically examine the implications of NEET youth on India's demographic dividend.
- Suggest policy measures to integrate NEET youth, especially women, into education and employment.