THE IMPACT OF DIGITAL MEDIA ON YOUTH POLITICAL ENGAGEMENT IN INDIA: TRENDS AND TRANSFORMATIONS FROM 2010 TO 2024

Abstract

This paper examines the profound impact of digital media on youth political engagement in India from 2010 to 2024. Through a comprehensive sociological analysis, we explore how the proliferation of social media platforms, messaging apps, and online news sources has transformed the nature of political participation among Indian youth. The study combines quantitative data from national surveys with qualitative insights from field research to present a nuanced understanding of the evolving landscape of youth politics in the digital age. We argue that while digital media has significantly expanded the avenues for political engagement, it has also introduced new challenges such as misinformation and echo chambers, creating a complex and dynamic political environment for India's young population.