And it’s not laziness. It’s broken systems. NITI Aayog’s 2026 report found most of these NEET youth (Neither Employed, nor in Education or Training) are stuck; juggling family responsibilities, unable to afford courses, and clueless about where to even start. Only 8.25% of graduates land jobs matching their degrees. Why? Because skilling programs often ignore placement support, real-world training, or even basic awareness. The state is spending ₹340 billion on skilling; but without fixing access, timing, and income support, it’s like giving someone a map with no fuel. Tamil Nadu’s Naan Mudhalvan and Maharashtra’s Mahaswayam show local solutions can work; but they’re exceptions, not the rule. This isn’t just about jobs. It’s about trust. When young people are told to “build Viksit Bharat” but have no clear path to dignity or income, frustration turns into protest; and eventually, disillusionment. The real question isn’t “Why are they angry?” It’s “Why did we let this happen?”