Kashmir's Battle for Its Young Minds

Roads in the valley daily fill with young faces heading to colleges, universities, and coaching centres.

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Discussions revolve around NEET, UPSC, engineering seats, government jobs, and business ideas. Energy and ambition define this generation.

Parents place deep trust in their children. Mothers prepare meals and remind them to eat on time. Fathers speak about discipline and focus. Teachers push them to aim higher. Society expects this generation to build stability, strengthen the economy, and bring pride to the valley.

Pressure grows alongside these expectations. Competition for government jobs remains intense. Private sector growth moves slowly. Many graduates wait years for stable work. Exam results frame confidence and self worth. Social media adds another layer of comparison. Young minds absorb all this stress while trying to stay strong.