India’s Generation Z is rapidly becoming a significant political force ahead of the 2029 general election, analysts say. People aged 18 to 32 are expected to form the country’s largest adult population by then, creating a new electoral equation for political parties. The generation will include the largest student group, first-time voters, young people entering work and those forming new families.

Analysis cited in the report projects India’s Gen Z population at about 380 million in 2029, including roughly 199 million men and 181 million women. That would exceed the estimated 357 million millennials. Student protests over the NEET-UG question paper leak, followed by nationwide demonstrations demanding the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, highlighted young people’s growing political influence.

The UN medium projection says voters aged 18 to 29 may account for 27.8 percent of the electorate in 2029, down from 30.1 percent in 2024. Analysts nevertheless say Gen Z’s digital connectivity, educational aspirations and ability to organize quickly on social media can amplify its influence. Employment, education, living costs, housing, climate change and governance are expected to gain greater political importance.