Days after stepping down as the Union Education Minister in the thick of student protests over NEET UG 2026 paper leak and other irregularities in the education system, BJP MP Dharmendra Pradhan has turned the spotlight on Gen Z. He shared his personal experience of trying to understand the aspirations and challenges of today’s youngsters. 

Speaking at an event at the GM University in Odisha, Pradhan, who represents the Sambalpur Lok Sabha constituency, underlined the growing importance of understanding young people in a society which is changing rapidly. 

“Trying to understand Gen Z as a parent”: Pradhan

Addressing the attendees of the event, Pradhan detailed his efforts to understand the mindset of Gen Z. He said that as a parent, he had been persevering in efforts to understand the aspirations, concerns and challenges faced by the new generation. 

His remarks centred on the need for greater communication between young people, parents and educators, especially at a time when technology and social media are reshaping the learning process of a younger generation, as well as its communication and decision-making. 

Pradhan also voiced concern over what he termed ‘attempts by some people’ to mislead or influence young minds. He underscored the significance of providing young people with proper guidance while ensuring they have the ability to distinguish between constructive opportunities and misleading influences. 

“Approx 20 cr people to shape India’s future”: Pradhan

The former Education Minister then reflected on India’s enormous youth population, opining that the country’s future would be closely linked to the aspirations, abilities and choices of its younger citizens. 

Referring to approximately 20 crore young people, he said the generation would play a pivotal role in determining the direction India takes in the years ahead. Furthermore, his address also emphasised the responsibility of parents, educators and the society to understand young people rather than simply criticise them. 

BJP MP lays focus on youth empowerment

Further in his address, the BJP MP also shed light on the importance of creating an environment in which young people can be guided, empowered and encouraged to make informed choices. The broader message of his address was that India’s progress shall depend significantly on how effectively the country understands and engages with its young population.