India, often referred to as a “young nation”, has 65% of its population under 35, with a median age of 28.4 years, according to one estimate. Yet, parliament tells a different story, one dominated by older leaders. This raises pressing concerns about representation in a rapidly changing world.
The data from the 18th Lok Sabha elections is revealing. Of the 543 MPs, 43.09% are aged 56 to 70, and 37.75% are between 41 and 55. Together, they make up 80.84% of the Lok Sabha.
Meanwhile, only 9.94% – about 54 members – are between 25 and 40, despite this age group forming nearly one-fourth of the nation’s population. This stark contrast raises important questions: Can a parliament dominated by older leaders effectively represent the aspirations and challenges of a young nation?
This gap isn’t just a demographic quirk; it reflects deeper structural issues in India’s political landscape. Indian politics has traditionally equated age with wisdom, favouring experience over innovation. But as India grapples with the challenges of the 21st century – such as artificial intelligence (AI), climate change and a growing gig economy – this reliance on older leaders seems increasingly out of sync.
The rapid rise of AI in India’s tech sector underscores the urgency of this issue. With the AI market expected to reach $7.8 billion by 2025, understanding the complexities of this technology is crucial. Yet, fewer than 10% of Lok Sabha MPs are from the generation most familiar with the digital age.
Decisions made today about AI will impact jobs, privacy and India’s global position. Can MPs, many of whom came of age in a pre-digital world, fully grasp these challenges?
The disconnect extends beyond technology. India’s youth are particularly concerned about climate change, with 79% viewing it as a critical issue. Yet, the MPs responsible for enacting policies on climate action mostly belong to generations that didn’t grow up with this level of environmental awareness.
India, as the world’s third-largest emitter of carbon dioxide, faces dire consequences if it fails to act. Can older leaders, who may prioritise economic growth over environmental sustainability, adequately address this?
The generational gap also shows up in social issues like gender equality and digital privacy, where younger voters tend to be far more progressive. Despite this, the voices of younger generations remain underrepresented in key political spaces, leaving their concerns on such issues often overlooked.
One of the most telling aspects of the 2024 elections was the size of the youth vote. An estimated 18.2 million first-time voters were eligible to participate according to the Election Commission, marking one of the largest groups in Indian electoral history. Despite this influx, their representation in parliament remains marginal.
Political parties have made promises targeting the youth – on education, jobs and social reforms – but have been slow to promote younger leaders to positions of influence. This disconnect risks alienating a generation from politics, leading to its disengagement from democracy itself.
India is not alone in this issue, but the stakes are higher in a country where over 50% of the population is under 30. By 2030, India’s working-age population is projected by EY to reach 1.04 billion, comprising 68.9% of the total population, with the dependency ratio falling to a historic low of 31.2%. Yet, without adequate representation, the country risks failing to harness their potential.
The generational imbalance in parliament reflects a broader misalignment in values and priorities. Younger MPs may favour bold reforms, particularly in areas like climate policy and digital rights, while older MPs may opt for incremental change.
The solution is not to replace older leaders, but to find balance. A parliament that combines the experience and wisdom of age with the energy and innovation of youth could help India navigate the challenges ahead. Political parties must make a real commitment to providing platforms for younger leaders, not just to court the youth vote, but to empower them as decision-makers.
As the 18th Lok Sabha takes its place in history, the debate about age and representation in Indian politics must continue. The conversation must extend beyond parliament and resonate across India. The future belongs to the young, and it is time that this reality is reflected in the leadership of the world’s largest democracy.
The writers are with NCAER, New Delhi. Views are personal.
