J&K must prioritize youth retention to boost economic growth: Official

Jammu and Kashmir needs to create an enabling environment that encourages skilled youth to remain in the region rather than seeking opportunities elsewhere, according to officials reviewing the territory's development priorities.

The call for youth retention underscores growing concerns about brain drain in J&K, where talented professionals have historically migrated to other states and cities in search of better career prospects and quality of life. Addressing this challenge is seen as critical for the region's long-term economic growth and competitiveness.

Retaining young talent requires a multi-pronged approach, including creating quality employment opportunities in emerging sectors, improving educational infrastructure, and fostering entrepreneurship. Officials have pointed to the need for private sector investment alongside government initiatives to generate meaningful jobs that can match opportunities available elsewhere in India.

J&K's ability to keep its youth engaged in productive work within the region is expected to have multiplier effects on the local economy, from reduced dependency on migration remittances to strengthened human capital for innovation and business development. Stakeholders have emphasized that policy interventions must focus on making the region an attractive destination for ambitious young professionals and entrepreneurs.