Education, jobs, infra, harmony top talking points among youth

According to the Election Commission, there are 9.17 lakh first-time voters in Karnataka. The issues for youth seem to be different and they don't mind breaking the family and caste barrier to vote for the party of their choice.

THE URBAN YOUTH

Employment, urban infrastructure and amenities are top of the mind of young voters across the state. Girish N (23), a second year B.Tech studentin Bengaluru, said: "Traditionally, my family has supported JDS. Now, everyone can notice that India has got better global recognition and I hope there will be better job opportunities."


Ranjitha S (21), a nursing student at a college in Manipal, says that her education loan was initially denied by the local bank and her family had to try hard to secure a loan. Her father, Swaminathan, runs a shoe repair shop in Manipal. In 2018 she voted for the BJP. "I need money and support for my education. I would try Congress as they have announced several support schemes for girls," she told ET.

RURAL YOUTH

For rural youth, development of the constituency is priority. Some of them still swear by their family choice. For some, their vote will be for those who offer a better society. Keerthi Gowda (26), who works at a Toyota dealership in Hassan, keeps checking the election speeches on his mobile phone between work. A JDS supporter till 2019, Keerthi is impressed with Hassan BJP MLA Preetham Gowda.

This is different in the case of journalism student Shreya (21) from Shravanabelagola in Hassan. "The area has got better education facilities thanks to the Deve Gowda family. " she told ET.

ENGAGEMENT ON THE CAMPUS

Political parties are trying different ways to reach out to the youth. BJP Yuva Morcha has been organising Yuva Samvad at college campuses and outside where senior BJP leaders interact with the youth. BJP leaders talk about development and senior leaders highlight the fact that Karnataka is the new electric vehicle hub and it is getting the first chip making plant.

Congress is also visiting colleges to target first-time voters. The party leaders highlight the employment allowance announced in the party guarantee and also promise to fill vacant government posts.