India National Consultation Post 2015 Development Agenda

1. India National Consultation Post 2015 Development Agenda YOUth Matters “I did not know that my voice could be heard in my community, region, state and country! I am proud to be part of this important process...” Binondo Pegu, 22 years, Assam Validation Workshop New Delhi 19 March 2013

2. The Changing Global and National Context • An uncertain and increasingly unstable world- era of conflicts- economic crisis, climate change, border conflicts, changes in global governance and emerging actors • A more connected world- increased exposure due to technological advancements – yet lack of access to both information and services at community level • Increased unrest and anger in the youth – an increasing demand to be seen as leaders of today, to change status quo and demanding their right to be empowered, to be seen with respect as equal stakeholders. • Increasing youth bulge in the south as against the increased greying of north • Wide diversities and contextual differences, shrinking opportunities, increasing instability, increasing conflicts and not enough to empower young people holistically and be given their due as decision makers, leaders and stakeholders today.

3. FactToday over 50% of the Indian population is below 25 years ( 2011 Census statistic) FactIndia Matters FactBy 2020 India will be the youngest nation with an average age of 29 years (http://www.youthportal.gov.in/statistics/demographicdetails.htm)

4. YET “Young People DON’T get a platform to be heard” - Consensus across consultations

5. Fact“However hard we try and plan, we will not be able to reach anywhere unless we address these issues.” – Razia,24 years, Tamil Nadu

6. Post -2015 Development Goals What We Want • Youthshould be looked at as a separate tract at the Global level and the National Level. • Young People to be seen as a partner and an equal stakeholder and decision maker (Leaders) for self and society. • Creation of an enabling environment to help each young • person to be empowered and be change agents.

7. Post -2015 Development Goals I. Ensure Youth Participation and Invest in Youth Leadership at all levels “ We should not wait for the government to bring about development … the change should begin within ourselves” – Padmini K, 18 years, Odisha • Participation – Reservation at all levels of governance and policy making. Separate Youth Ministry and Youth budgeting across sectors. • Universal Leadership and Life skills development ( self awareness, value based leadership skills, communication skills, skills of inspiring and influencing people and making informed choices, dealing with failure, ability to create true relationships and support systems, negotiation skills, conflict resolution skills etc.)

8. Post -2015 Development Goals II Enabling Environment to Empower Young People “There is a big line that differentiates young people from adults. Young people want to make a difference, when they have the knowledge of spaces within which to get involved and act as change makers. Such opportunities are connected to our passions, dreams and hopes for the future. “ Female, 20, Chandigarh • Providing safe, inclusive, non judgemental spaces for open sharing, fun, learning, making mistakes, taking responsibilities and for cross border engagements across geographies and identities. • Ensure an informed, knowledgeable support group - parents, teachers, peer groups, counselors, doctors, policy makers, and law enforcement.

9. Post -2015 Development Goals • Invest in business & life skills and context specific opportunities to ensure equitable growth, livelihoods and entrepreneurship B. Ensure accountable and responsive governance with and for young people C. Empower and engage young people to be equal stakeholders in peace building processes in areas of conflict and fragility and uphold their human rights. D. Ensure universal access to comprehensive, relevant and inclusive education for the holistic development of both in and out of school adolescents and young people.

10. Post -2015 Development Goals E. Access to comprehensive, youth friendly information, services and support groups that ensure holistic health , well being and rights of all young people F. Eliminating stigma, violence, discrimination and inequalities based on gender (including the third gender), caste, class, religion and disability G. Promote and implement environmentally sustainable practices by researching, promoting and protecting rural/ indigenous environment friendly practices in agriculture, production & manufacturing

11. “ I feel empowered to be a part of this group, it is now my responsibility to take back what I have seen and learnt. We all need to be a part of this development we want to see.”