Urbanisation is reshaping human settlements at an unprecedented pace, creating a complex interplay of identities, cultural practices, resources, and values within urban spaces. As India progresses towards becoming a developed nation, it is vital to ensure that every citizen enjoys a dignified life amidst this transformation. Currently, Indian
cities are under tremendous pressure to accommodate the growing demands of the urban population. Addressing the challenge of resources scarcity is critical, especially as housing shortages intensify. In 2018, India faced a housing deficit of 29 million units, according to the Indian Council for Research on International Economic Relations
(Roy & ML, 2020). Thus, housing emerges as a crucial focus area for this decade, and how we tackle this crisis will shape the future of our urban environments.
Using the systems thinking framework/approach, the youth can advocate for balancing growth with environmental and social needs, and can inform and drive policies that promote long-term sustainability. As cities continue to grow and evolve, it is crucial to empower the youth with the skills and tools to navigate the complexities of urban living, while also equipping them with a comprehensive understanding of the intricacies of the various elements of an urban system, so that they can play an active role in reshaping the urban futures to make them both inclusive and sustainable. It is evident that involving the youth as key participants in governance is crucial for bringing about a transformative impact. Given that systems thinking is a powerful tool for readying the youth to play this role well, it must be advanced within educational and policy frameworks. The median age of India’s population is around 28 years, giving it a significant demographic advantage, which can be utilised to foster a sustainable and inclusive future. A strategic emphasis on systems thinking that equips and engages its large youth population meaningfully in participative decision-making and sustainable development efforts can enable India to become a global leader in these areas.
