Mental well-being of youth at core of economic agenda

IDENTIFYING MENTAL HEALTH of youth as one of the drivers of the future economy, the Survey suggests some areas where the government has to step in for impactful preventive strategies and interventions as India's demographic dividend is riding on skills, education and physical health.

- PRASANTA SAHU

Given the direct costs to human welfare and the spirit and sentiment of the nation, putting mental well-being at the centre of the economic agenda is prudent, it said.

"Post-facto treatment will not be sufficient. It is about time to find viable, impactful preventive strategies and interventions," said finance ministry economists, led by chief economic adviser V. Anantha Nageswaran.

The Economic Survey 2023-24 focused on the impact of screen time and ultra-processed foods on children. The Survey for 2024-25 examines the impact of work culture, lifestyle and eating habits on mental health. These are some of the areas where the state has to step in, it said.