Skip to content
Search

Latest Stories

India elections: First-time voters want jobs, harmony

India elections will be held in seven phases from April 19 to June 1, and the counting of votes will be done on June 4.

India elections: First-time voters want jobs, harmony

India's general elections, set to begin this Friday (April 19), mark a significant democratic exercise as the country hosts the world's largest electoral event. More than 18 million first-time voters, including young individuals like 20-year-old Roushan Kumar from West Bengal, are poised to cast their ballots, with many prioritising employment and educational advancements.

Polls suggest that prime minister Narendra Modi may secure a third term. However, first-time voters like Kumar are keen on choosing leaders who focus on pivotal issues such as job creation and communal harmony.


Despite a strong track record in economic growth under Modi's administration, concerns over unemployment and rising sectarian tensions remain critical to the youth.

"I will vote for a party that works for development in education. I will vote for a party that will provide employment – so that there are jobs," Kumar, who supports Modi, explained to Reuters.

According to a CSDS-Lokniti survey of 1,290 first-time voters in New Delhi, rising unemployment, inflation, and communal tensions are major concerns after ten years under Modi. However, nearly two-thirds of respondents appreciate the economic strides under Modi’s administration, including the construction of a large Hindu temple.

Despite impressive economic growth, India struggles to create sufficient jobs, leaving many young people unemployed, as reported by the International Labour Organisation and the Institute for Human Development.

Akansha Majumdar, a 20-year-old engineering student from West Bengal, stresses the importance of eliminating illiteracy and ensuring job security in India. To address these voter concerns, the Congress party promises paid apprenticeships, and Modi’s manifesto includes job creation initiatives.

Communal harmony is also a significant concern among young voters. Mohammad Aijaz Ansari, a 19-year-old laptop repair technician in Delhi, said, "Fighting in the name of religion is everywhere and should not happen." He plans to vote for the Aam Aadmi Party, allied with Congress.

Last year, the US State Department expressed concerns regarding the treatment of Muslims and other minorities in India, which Modi has denied.

(Reuters)

More For You

Sri Lanka forms committee to address UK sanctions
Anura Kumara Dissanayake

Sri Lanka forms committee to address UK sanctions

THE Sri Lanka government on Wednesday (2) formed a committee to recommend measures regarding the UK's decision to impose sanctions on three former military commanders who led the campaign that crushed the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) in 2009.

Health minister Nalinda Jayatissa told reporters that foreign minister Vijitha Herath, justice minister Harshana Nanayakkara and deputy minister of defence Aruna Jayasekara would comprise the committee that would consult experts for the purpose.

Keep ReadingShow less
Gujarat-blast-ANI

The blast caused the factory’s concrete roof to collapse, scattering debris and body parts across the area, officials confirmed. (Photo: ANI)

ANI

Death toll rises to 21 in Gujarat firework factory explosion

AN EXPLOSION at an illegal firecracker factory in Gujarat's Deesa town killed 21 people and injured several others on Tuesday, officials said.

The blast caused the factory’s concrete roof to collapse, scattering debris and body parts across the area, officials confirmed.

Keep ReadingShow less
Child benefit payments set to rise for UK families

Child benefit, normally paid every four weeks directly into bank accounts, has undergone significant changes in recent months (Photo: Getty Images)

Child benefit payments set to rise for UK families

MILLIONS of British families are set to receive a financial boost as child benefit payments increase from April 7, according to HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC).

From next week, parents will receive £26.05 per week for the eldest or only child, amounting to £1,354.60 annually - up from the current rate of £25.60. For each additional child, payments will rise to £17.25 weekly, totalling £897 per year - an increase from the present £16.95 rate. This represents a 1.7 per cent increase across all payment categories.

Keep ReadingShow less
Anant Ambani Walks 140 Km in Spiritual Tribute on 30th Birthday

Anant’s padyatra is a reflection of the larger cultural fabric of India

Getty

Anant Ambani embarks on a 140-kilometer spiritual journey on foot to celebrate 30th birthday

Anant Ambani, a director of Reliance Industries Limited and a prominent figure in Indian industry, has chosen a unique and spiritual way to mark his 30th birthday. As part of his celebrations, he is currently undertaking a padyatra—a traditional pilgrimage on foot—from Jamnagar to Dwarka, covering a distance of approximately 140 kilometres. The journey reflects his devotion to Lord Dwarkadhish, the presiding deity of the Dwarkadhish Temple in the city of Dwarka.

Anant began his journey from his family’s residence in Moti Khavdi, Jamnagar, and has been progressing steadily for the past five days. Walking an estimated 10-12 kilometres each night, he travels under the protection of Z+ security and local police, ensuring his safety during this significant journey. The padyatra is expected to take between seven to nine days in total, with plans to conclude at the Dwarkadhish Temple in time for his birthday on April 10.

Keep ReadingShow less
New TB action plan proposed as cases surge

Government urged experts to come forward to help draw up a new five-year TB action plan. (Photo: Getty Images)

New TB action plan proposed as cases surge

BRITAIN on Wednesday (2) urged health experts and sufferers of tuberculosis (TB) to come forward to help draw up a new five-year action plan as it deals with record rises in the disease.

In 2023, England recorded its largest annual increase (11 per cent) in cases since enhanced surveillance began in 2000.

Keep ReadingShow less