'India's growth depends on its youth'

At CII meet it is emphasised that the country's growth does not depend on politics and governance, but on youth.

The Indian economy is on the positive trajectory even as politics and governance leave much to be desired and it is the youth of today who can shape a truly developed India, according to experts.

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Issues on how the 700 million Indians who are below 40 can make a difference in developing the country were discussed on Saturday in New Delhi at the Young Indians Summit, organised by the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII).

"The quality of Indian democracy is not very good and there has been enormous deterioration in good governance and politics. And it is this chance that the young of today can take advantage of to improve," Lord Meghnad Desai, former professor of the London School of Economics, told the summit.

"It's a shame that unless one belongs to a dynasty, one can't be an MP (Member of Parliament) and our political system is such that it does not allow and encourage the young to join politics," the renowned economist added.

"The country's growth does not depend on politics and governance, not on the finance minister or the Planning Commission but on the youth."

Said Arun Maira, chairman of Boston Consulting Group, "Today India is observing the highest-ever growth with flourishing businesses across all sectors because of the rise of our young population.

"I, hence, urge the young of today not to be protesters nor passive consumers but social contributors by bringing about a real change in the society," he said.