As cases of youngsters being pushed to the extreme are increasingly reported from around the world, the question arises: what causes them to take such drastic steps? Recently, in India, an 18-year-old boy threatened to jump from a cliff after an argument over his iPhone instalment. His father's attempt to pull him back ended in tragedy for the entire family.&nbsp;&nbsp;In February 2026, three minor sisters, aged 16, 14, and 12, jumped from the ninth floor of their apartment building in Ghaziabad following a confrontation with their father, who took away their phones and deleted their social media accounts. In both cases, the immediate trigger might have been phones, but later investigations revealed more to them than met the eye.&nbsp;Cutting off access to devices or being scolded by parents over excessive screen time has led to tragic outcomes in many cases. Besides phones, young adults and children also go to extreme lengths when faced with bullying, failure in exams, social comparisons and more. It is aggravated by social media, where exposure adds to their mental distress.&nbsp;Are the youth today less resilient to social pressures? Have failure and the feeling of not being good enough taken over their lives more than they should?<h2>Comparisons, exposure, and social media</h2> Dr Munia Bhattacharya, Senior Consultant Psychologist, Marengo Asia Hospitals, Gurugram, says, "I would not call today's youngsters a 'weak generation'. In fact, I think that is an unfair way of looking at it. Young people have always faced pressure. What has changed is the nature of that pressure. Today there is almost no psychological escape from comparison." The problem, according to her, begins when they constantly see others doing better than them on social media.&nbsp;"They can feel inadequate about money, appearance, relationships, possessions or popularity and be reminded of it every time they open their phone. There is a constant feeling of being watched, compared and measured," Dr Bhattacharya says. They can feel the “pressure to perform, to fit in, to look a certain way, to have what others have, to keep up with friends, to satisfy parents, to succeed in relationships and, increasingly, to appear successful online.”<h2>Learning to cope with emotions</h2> Damini Grover, a therapist and life coach, says many of them tie their worth to material things and good scores in exams. When they fall short in these areas, they find it hard to process their emotions because they don't know how to.&nbsp;"Self-worth can become tied to academic achievement, physical appearance, relationships, way of life and even material possessions. The fear is not that this generation is inherently less resilient, but that so many youngsters may be under enormous emotional stress, without having developed proper coping skills or safe spaces to process distress," she says.&nbsp;Mugdha Pradhan, functional medicine practitioner and certified breathwork practitioner, iThrive, agrees and says it is crucial to help them learn about failures and how to live with them. “Many children today have grown up with more comfort, convenience and parental protection than previous generations. That is not inherently a bad thing, but when they rarely experience disappointment, failure or discomfort, they are not getting enough opportunities to develop the ability to cope when life eventually becomes difficult.”<h2>How to make the youth more resilient?</h2>&nbsp;Dr Bhattacharya says dismissing such reactions as simply being oversensitive or lacking resilience is not correct. They might be too young to &nbsp;have the emotional distance to say, "I have failed this time, but I can recover." She adds that, in a moment of intense distress, "the mind can become very narrow. The problem in front of them feels enormous and the possibility of tomorrow becomes difficult to see."&nbsp;So it is important to prepare them for failures and disappointments, and to make them understand that everyone is living their own lives. How do you do this? Grover says, simply telling young people to "be resilient" will not help fix the problem. You need to build emotional resilience.&nbsp;Dr Bhattacharya agrees, saying that resilience is not something they can magically have. They need to be taught to experience disappointment without letting it define them. "It develops over time. It comes from relationships, from learning that failure is survivable, from being allowed to make mistakes, from having people they can talk to and from gradually learning how to manage difficult emotions."&nbsp;Pradhan adds, "What we need to build is not a generation that never experiences pressure, but one that knows how to move through it. Young people need emotional connection, meaningful relationships, boundaries, responsibility and age-appropriate exposure to challenges."&nbsp;Parents and educational institutions have a huge role to play here. Grover says they must be alert to changes in emotions and behaviour early and foster environments where seeking psychological support is normal rather than something that occurs only when a crisis has already occurred.<h2>Preparing the youth for the world</h2> Keeping our youth safe is a collective action. They are growing up in a world where they are exposed to fashion, big careers, huge amounts of money, lavish lifestyles, etc. Pushing them head-on into this world to figure it out for themselves can overwhelm them. Trying to protect and shield them isn't the answer either, since it won't make these things go away.&nbsp;What is needed is to support them as they tackle these pressures in the outside world. Failures are bound to happen; no one can be the same; not everyone can have all the material possessions is what children need to be prepared for. What they need is the ability to cope with pressure without believing that one difficult moment defines their entire future. Because sometimes what looks like a small trigger to an adult may be the point at which a much larger emotional burden finally becomes visible.

Hearing of tragic incidents involving youth raises the question of why they are happening. Experts say it boils down to comparisons and a lack of resilience in a world where pressure pushes them to believe that they can't be differen, and it is a must to be like everyone else.

As cases of youngsters being pushed to the extreme are increasingly reported from around the world, the question arises: what causes them to take such drastic steps? Recently, in India, an 18-year-old boy threatened to jump from a cliff after an argument over his iPhone instalment. His father's attempt to pull him back ended in tragedy for the entire family. In February 2026, three minor sisters, aged 16, 14, and 12, jumped from the ninth floor of their apartment building in Ghaziabad following a confrontation with their father, who took away their phones and deleted their social media accounts. In both cases, the immediate trigger might have been phones, but later investigations revealed more to them than met the eye. Cutting off access to devices or being scolded by parents over excessive screen time has led to tragic outcomes in many cases. Besides phones, young adults and children also go to extreme lengths when faced with bullying, failure in exams, social comparisons and more. It is aggravated by social media, where exposure adds to their mental distress. Are the youth today less resilient to social pressures? Have failure and the feeling of not being good enough taken over their lives more than they should? Comparisons, exposure, and social media Dr Munia Bhattacharya, Senior Consultant Psychologist, Marengo Asia Hospitals, Gurugram, says, "I would not call today's youngsters a 'weak generation'. In fact, I think that is an unfair way of looking at it. Young people have always faced pressure. What has changed is the nature of that pressure. Today there is almost no psychological escape from comparison." The problem, according to her, begins when they constantly see others doing better than them on social media. "They can feel inadequate about money, appearance, relationships, possessions or popularity and be reminded of it every time they open their phone. There is a constant feeling of being watched, compared and measured," Dr Bhattacharya says. They can feel the “pressure to perform, to fit in, to look a certain way, to have what others have, to keep up with friends, to satisfy parents, to succeed in relationships and, increasingly, to appear successful online.” Learning to cope with emotions Damini Grover, a therapist and life coach, says many of them tie their worth to material things and good scores in exams. When they fall short in these areas, they find it hard to process their emotions because they don't know how to. "Self-worth can become tied to academic achievement, physical appearance, relationships, way of life and even material possessions. The fear is not that this generation is inherently less resilient, but that so many youngsters may be under enormous emotional stress, without having developed proper coping skills or safe spaces to process distress," she says. Mugdha Pradhan, functional medicine practitioner and certified breathwork practitioner, iThrive, agrees and says it is crucial to help them learn about failures and how to live with them. “Many children today have grown up with more comfort, convenience and parental protection than previous generations. That is not inherently a bad thing, but when they rarely experience disappointment, failure or discomfort, they are not getting enough opportunities to develop the ability to cope when life eventually becomes difficult.” How to make the youth more resilient? Dr Bhattacharya says dismissing such reactions as simply being oversensitive or lacking resilience is not correct. They might be too young to have the emotional distance to say, "I have failed this time, but I can recover." She adds that, in a moment of intense distress, "the mind can become very narrow. The problem in front of them feels enormous and the possibility of tomorrow becomes difficult to see." So it is important to prepare them for failures and disappointments, and to make them understand that everyone is living their own lives. How do you do this? Grover says, simply telling young people to "be resilient" will not help fix the problem. You need to build emotional resilience. Dr Bhattacharya agrees, saying that resilience is not something they can magically have. They need to be taught to experience disappointment without letting it define them. "It develops over time. It comes from relationships, from learning that failure is survivable, from being allowed to make mistakes, from having people they can talk to and from gradually learning how to manage difficult emotions." Pradhan adds, "What we need to build is not a generation that never experiences pressure, but one that knows how to move through it. Young people need emotional connection, meaningful relationships, boundaries, responsibility and age-appropriate exposure to challenges." Parents and educational institutions have a huge role to play here. Grover says they must be alert to changes in emotions and behaviour early and foster environments where seeking psychological support is normal rather than something that occurs only when a crisis has already occurred. Preparing the youth for the world Keeping our youth safe is a collective action. They are growing up in a world where they are exposed to fashion, big careers, huge amounts of money, lavish lifestyles, etc. Pushing them head-on into this world to figure it out for themselves can overwhelm them. Trying to protect and shield them isn't the answer either, since it won't make these things go away. What is needed is to support them as they tackle these pressures in the outside world. Failures are bound to happen; no one can be the same; not everyone can have all the material possessions is what children need to be prepared for. What they need is the ability to cope with pressure without believing that one difficult moment defines their entire future. Because sometimes what looks like a small trigger to an adult may be the point at which a much larger emotional burden finally becomes visible.

Hearing of tragic incidents involving youth raises the question of why they are happening. Experts say it boils down to comparisons and a lack of resilience in a world where pressure pushes them to believe that they can't be different, and it is a must to be like everyone else.

Phones, failure and fear: What is pushing young people to the edge?

India's younger generation is reshaping the country's trading landscape. According to SEBI, investors under the age of 30 now account for 43% of derivatives market participants, highlighting Gen Z's growing appetite for financial markets. However, the regulator's data also reveals a stark reality: 89% of traders below 30 incurred losses in FY26. The trend has sparked debate over financial literacy, risk-taking behaviour and the growing influence of social media-driven investing among young Indians.


Gen Z fuels India's trading boom, but most young traders are losing money

Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Wednesday reacted to a viral video showing a female tourist arguing with security personnel at a checkpoint in Kargil while asserting Gen Z won’t tolerate nonsense, and said the phrase “we are Gen Z” could soon turn into an entitlement if used as a threat indiscriminately.&nbsp;“This ‘we are Gen Z’ has become the new ‘jaantay nahin ho mera baap kaun hai’. The quickest way to erode any Gen Z goodwill is to start using it as a threat at the slightest perceived affront,” Abdullah wrote on X.&nbsp;“Jaantay nahin ho mera baap kaun hai” is a familiar expression commonly used by youngsters in India to assert family influence or entitlement and browbeat police or other officials during a confrontation.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nato-prepared-to-defend-all-allies-after-reports-of-iran-mulling-attacks-on-us-targets-in-europe-1787141867863">NATO ‘prepared to defend all allies,‘ says official after reports of Iran mulling attacks on US targets in Europe</a>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">This “we are Gen Z” has become the new “jaantay nahin ho mera baap kaun hai”. The quickest way to erode any Gen Z goodwill is to start using it as a threat at the slightest perceived affront. <a href="https://t.co/ya5OJTgxIn">https://t.co/ya5OJTgxIn</a>&mdash; Omar Abdullah (@OmarAbdullah) <a href="https://x.com/OmarAbdullah/status/2090032134157484206?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 19, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;&nbsp;The video, which surfaced on social media on Wednesday, shows a woman at the Minimarg checkpoint in Kargil, Ladakh, arguing with security personnel over restrictions on traffic movement.In the video, the woman is heard lashing out at security personnel after her group was stopped at a checkpoint in Dras, Kargil District, saying, “We are Gen-Z and we won’t tolerate this nonsense”, while questioning why tourists were being subjected to restrictions.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iaea-chief-rafael-grossi-says-agency-found-tonnes-of-nuclear-material-in-syria-1787067845191">IAEA chief Rafael Grossi says agency found ‘tonnes of nuclear material’ in Syria</a>&nbsp;She is further heard alleging, “Kashmiriyon ke saath toh karte hi the ab tourists ke saath bhi karne lag gaye.”According to police sources, the incident took place on July 25, when the movement of Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and Army chief General Dhiraj Seth along the Zojila-Gumri route necessitated temporary traffic restrictions due to security concerns.&nbsp;She also complains that tourists travelled to the region after paying for their trip.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/no-ceasefire-now-war-must-come-to-a-permanent-end-says-iran-s-foreign-minister-abbas-araghchi-1787080893639">‘No ceasefire now, war must come to a permanent end,’ says Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi</a>&nbsp;The viral video surfaced as US Ambassador to India Sergio Gor visited Srinagar on Wednesday and met Abdullah. Gor said Washington would reconsider its travel advisories for Jammu and Kashmir.&nbsp;Roadblocks and travel restrictions are not uncommon in the Kargil region, particularly on routes affected by weather, security requirements and road conditions.

The video, which surfaced on social media on Wednesday, shows a woman at the Minimarg checkpoint in Kargil, Ladakh, arguing with security personnel over restrictions on traffic movement after her group was stopped at the checkpoint. 

Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Wednesday reacted to a viral video showing a female tourist arguing with security personnel at a checkpoint in Kargil while asserting Gen Z won’t tolerate nonsense, and said the phrase “we are Gen Z” could soon turn into an entitlement if used as a threat indiscriminately. “This ‘we are Gen Z’ has become the new ‘jaantay nahin ho mera baap kaun hai’. The quickest way to erode any Gen Z goodwill is to start using it as a threat at the slightest perceived affront,” Abdullah wrote on X. “Jaantay nahin ho mera baap kaun hai” is a familiar expression commonly used by youngsters in India to assert family influence or entitlement and browbeat police or other officials during a confrontation. Also Read: NATO ‘prepared to defend all allies,‘ says official after reports of Iran mulling attacks on US targets in Europe

The video, which surfaced on social media on Wednesday, shows a woman at the Minimarg checkpoint in Kargil, Ladakh, arguing with security personnel over restrictions on traffic movement after her group was stopped at the checkpoint.&nbsp;

Gen Z ‘threat’ is the new ‘jaantay nahin ho mera baap kaun hai’: Omar Abdullah reacts to viral video at Kargil checkpoint

What if sports betting is no longer just entertainment for some young Americans, but part of their financial plan? A latest survey finds a significant share of Gen Z investors are moving money away from traditional investing and towards sports betting, with some even viewing bets as a long-term strategy. The trend is raising questions about how younger Americans are thinking about wealth, retirement and financial risk.


Gen Z bets on sports instead of retirement

COVID-19 locked the world inside their homes, which led a group of youngsters to completely shun other people. According to a study by the Financial Times, nearly 10 per cent of the Gen Z population has absolutely no interaction with another person in their daily lives. The American Time Use Survey s states that this group of people - aged 23 to 29 - never recovered from the effects of isolation triggered by the pandemic.&nbsp;Before the lockdowns, in 2019, only 3 per cent of young adults had zero interaction with others. By the time Covid restrictions were eased in late 2021, this number had skyrocketed to 9 per cent. In 2023, it touched 10 per cent, fell slightly in 2024 and 2025. Most youngsters came out of their homes and got into the rigours and adventure that come with this age. However, a small group remained stuck in pandemic times.<h2>Isolation: A choice or natural order of things after COVID-19?</h2>However, experts think they did not choose it; instead, they got used to it. "I would be a little careful about saying that Gen Z has “chosen” to stay away from people. Human behaviour is rarely that simple. Sometimes we don't consciously choose isolation. We slowly get used to it. COVID may have been a major turning point in that process," Dr Munia Bhattacharya, Senior Consultant Psychologist, Marengo Asia Hospitals, Gurugram, told WION.&nbsp;Before COVID-19 forced people to limit face-to-face interactions, young adults who were extremely active socially spent 87 per cent of their day with other people. During the pandemic, this number stood at 78 per cent, rebounding to 83 per cent in 2025. Meanwhile, for those who earlier spent only about a third of their day with others, the percentage dropped to zero and has not changed.<h2>Avoiding meeting people became convenient</h2>Bhattacharya says that while meeting friends, going to college, attending parties, travelling, sitting together, and even having those everyday, meaningless conversations became difficult or impossible during the pandemic, everyone discovered that almost everything could happen from home. That convenience has a psychological side to it.&nbsp;Meeting friends online means the absence of awkward silence or someone’s unexpected reaction. "And the more we avoid something, the harder it can sometimes become to return to it," she says.&nbsp;Meanwhile, Bhattacharya says COVID might not be the only thing to blame for this isolation. "Social media, academic pressure, career uncertainty, fear of judgement and the constant comparison that young people experience online were already changing the way they related to one another," she believes.<h2>How can this situation be resolved?&nbsp;</h2>First, there is no need to pressure them into meeting people or make them feel guilty for wanting solitude. We need to help them rediscover the comfort of ordinary human contact: the friend sitting beside you, a spontaneous conversation, sharing a meal, laughing without a screen in between. &nbsp;

A chunk of American youngsters absolutely do not meet people in their everyday lives, with zero interaction. This isolation was triggered by the COVID-19 lockdowns and has remained the same ever since for them. 

COVID-19 locked the world inside their homes, which led a group of youngsters to completely shun other people. According to a study by the Financial Times, nearly 10 per cent of the Gen Z population has absolutely no interaction with another person in their daily lives. The American Time Use Survey s states that this group of people - aged 23 to 29 - never recovered from the effects of isolation triggered by the pandemic. Before the lockdowns, in 2019, only 3 per cent of young adults had zero interaction with others. By the time Covid restrictions were eased in late 2021, this number had skyrocketed to 9 per cent. In 2023, it touched 10 per cent, fell slightly in 2024 and 2025. Most youngsters came out of their homes and got into the rigours and adventure that come with this age. However, a small group remained stuck in pandemic times. Isolation: A choice or natural order of things after COVID-19? However, experts think they did not choose it; instead, they got used to it. "I would be a little careful about saying that Gen Z has “chosen” to stay away from people. Human behaviour is rarely that simple. Sometimes we don't consciously choose isolation. We slowly get used to it. COVID may have been a major turning point in that process," Dr Munia Bhattacharya, Senior Consultant Psychologist, Marengo Asia Hospitals, Gurugram, told WION. Before COVID-19 forced people to limit face-to-face interactions, young adults who were extremely active socially spent 87 per cent of their day with other people. During the pandemic, this number stood at 78 per cent, rebounding to 83 per cent in 2025. Meanwhile, for those who earlier spent only about a third of their day with others, the percentage dropped to zero and has not changed. Avoiding meeting people became convenient Bhattacharya says that while meeting friends, going to college, attending parties, travelling, sitting together, and even having those everyday, meaningless conversations became difficult or impossible during the pandemic, everyone discovered that almost everything could happen from home. That convenience has a psychological side to it. Meeting friends online means the absence of awkward silence or someone’s unexpected reaction. "And the more we avoid something, the harder it can sometimes become to return to it," she says. Meanwhile, Bhattacharya says COVID might not be the only thing to blame for this isolation. "Social media, academic pressure, career uncertainty, fear of judgement and the constant comparison that young people experience online were already changing the way they related to one another," she believes. How can this situation be resolved? First, there is no need to pressure them into meeting people or make them feel guilty for wanting solitude. We need to help them rediscover the comfort of ordinary human contact: the friend sitting beside you, a spontaneous conversation, sharing a meal, laughing without a screen in between.

A chunk of American youngsters do not meet anyone in their everyday lives, reporting zero interaction. This isolation was triggered by the COVID-19 lockdowns and has remained the same ever since for them.&nbsp;

Covid isolation continues for a group of Gen Z who do not meet anyone even years after lockdowns

Student protests in Jharkhand are intensifying over alleged irregularities in recruitment examinations, with student leaders escalating their demands against the state government.

Protest leaders have announced plans to burn effigies of Chief Minister Hemant Soren and Congress leader Rahul Gandhi across all 24 district headquarters. They have also warned of a major mobilisation at the Chief Minister’s residence if their demands are not addressed.

The protesters are demanding the cancellation of examinations conducted by the Jharkhand Public Service Commission (JPSC) and Jharkhand Staff Selection Commission (JSSC), along with a CBI investigation into the alleged irregularities.

The protest has also drawn political confrontation, with Congress defending the government’s handling of the situation while accusing the BJP of politicising the issue. Meanwhile, the state government says it remains committed to transparency in recruitment examinations and has launched initiatives seeking students’ suggestions on improving education.


Jharkhand protests: Student-govt talks set for August 17

Gen Z is taking a different approach to money as soaring housing, living and everyday costs make traditional financial goals harder to reach. Instead of aggressively saving for a distant retirement, many young people are embracing “soft saving” — prioritising experiences, wellbeing and financial flexibility today. Is this a smarter way to live, or a risky bet on the future?


Gen Z turns to 'soft saving' as housing & living costs rise 

Gen Z is often seen as a generation that prioritises experiences and lifestyle spending. But a new report by Salary-Se paints a more nuanced picture. Analysis of millions of UPI transactions across more than 520 thousand salaried Gen Z users shows that everyday essentials, bills and financial services take up a large chunk of their monthly spending.


Where does Gen Z spend its salary?

#Gravitas A new report says India's 3.4-trillion-dollar household gold treasure could become a powerful engine of economic growth, and Generation Z may be the generation that unlocks it. 

How Gen Z Could Turn India into an Economic Superpower with $3.4 Trillion Gold Treasure | GRATIVAS 

India’s relationship with money is undergoing a quiet cultural shift. For a generation raised on instant commerce, digital payments and app-based lifestyles, credit cards are no longer a financial milestone; they’re becoming an early financial companion. A new Trans-Union Cibil report suggests Gen Z is entering the formal credit system much earlier than millennials did, and they’re not just getting cards, they’re using them more actively. Nearly 28 per cent of Gen Z cardholders spend ₹25,000 or more within the first three months of getting a new credit card, compared with 20 per cent of millennials, signalling a greater willingness among younger consumers to use credit from the outset.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/from-oil-markets-to-dinner-plates-how-west-asia-tensions-are-making-indian-meals-costlier-1783656303954">From oil markets to dinner plates: How West Asia tensions are making Indian meals costlier</a> The report also points to a growing multi-card culture. One in every two new young cardholders opens another credit card within 12 months of getting their first, suggesting that access to credit is becoming an integral part of personal finance for India’s youngest borrowers. The trend is unfolding against the backdrop of a rapidly expanding credit card market. Outstanding credit card balances have surged from around ₹0.4 lakh crore to ₹3.1 lakh crore over the past decade, while the number of credit card users has jumped from 1.4 crore to 5.2 crore.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-income-tax-return-2026-filing-itr-this-year-here-s-how-ai-could-save-or-sink-your-return-1783653826947">Filing ITR this year? Here's how AI could save, or sink, your return</a> For banks, that's evidence of deeper credit penetration. For businesses, it reflects a consumer economy that is increasingly comfortable with spending today and paying later. But every swipe comes with a caveat. As younger Indians embrace unsecured credit earlier and more frequently, repayment discipline is becoming just as important as access to credit. The report flags rising early-stage delinquencies among younger borrowers, highlighting that while India’s credit culture is evolving rapidly, responsible borrowing will need to evolve just as fast.

India's youngest consumers are entering the credit system earlier than ever, opening multiple credit cards and spending more aggressively than millennials. Here's what the latest CIBIL report reveals about Gen Z's changing relationship with money.

India’s relationship with money is undergoing a quiet cultural shift. For a generation raised on instant commerce, digital payments and app-based lifestyles, credit cards are no longer a financial milestone; they’re becoming an early financial companion. A new Trans-Union Cibil report suggests Gen Z is entering the formal credit system much earlier than millennials did, and they’re not just getting cards, they’re using them more actively. Nearly 28 per cent of Gen Z cardholders spend ₹25,000 or more within the first three months of getting a new credit card, compared with 20 per cent of millennials, signalling a greater willingness among younger consumers to use credit from the outset. Also read | From oil markets to dinner plates: How West Asia tensions are making Indian meals costlier The report also points to a growing multi-card culture. One in every two new young cardholders opens another credit card within 12 months of getting their first, suggesting that access to credit is becoming an integral part of personal finance for India’s youngest borrowers. The trend is unfolding against the backdrop of a rapidly expanding credit card market. Outstanding credit card balances have surged from around ₹0.4 lakh crore to ₹3.1 lakh crore over the past decade, while the number of credit card users has jumped from 1.4 crore to 5.2 crore. Also read | Filing ITR this year? Here's how AI could save, or sink, your return For banks, that's evidence of deeper credit penetration. For businesses, it reflects a consumer economy that is increasingly comfortable with spending today and paying later. But every swipe comes with a caveat. As younger Indians embrace unsecured credit earlier and more frequently, repayment discipline is becoming just as important as access to credit. The report flags rising early-stage delinquencies among younger borrowers, highlighting that while India’s credit culture is evolving rapidly, responsible borrowing will need to evolve just as fast.

India's youngest consumers are entering the credit system earlier than ever, opening multiple credit cards and spending more aggressively than millennials. Here's what the latest CIBIL report reveals about Gen Z's changing relationship with money.

Swipe right on credit: India's Gen Z is embracing credit cards faster than millennials, shows CIBIL report

A new Gen Z trend is going viral online where users interact with fake food ordering apps or simulated takeaway interfaces—without actually buying anything. The unusual behaviour is being linked to “dopamine hits,” where the brain gets satisfaction from browsing menus, adding items, and completing checkout flows. Experts say it reflects how digital habits, entertainment, and stress relief are blending in unexpected ways, especially among younger internet users seeking quick emotional stimulation.


Why Gen Z Is Using Fake Food Apps For A Dopamine Hit 

A new study suggests that Gen Z workers are earning more than Millennials did at the same stage of their careers, highlighting a major shift in the job market. Analysts say Millennials entered the workforce during economic crises and periods of uncertainty that limited opportunities and wage growth.

Gen Z Beating Millennials? New Study Reveals Surprising Income Gap

What happens when loneliness becomes content? On TikTok, videos about isolation, social disconnection, and the struggle to form meaningful relationships are attracting millions of views. For many Gen Z users, these posts have become a way to share experiences, seek validation, and build online communities around a growing emotional reality. But experts warn that while social media can create a sense of connection, it may also amplify feelings of loneliness. This episode of Gravitas explores why loneliness is trending on TikTok and what it reveals about modern life.


Loneliness Becomes A Trend On TikTok

Former U.S. First Lady Michelle Obama has shared a message for Gen Z, stressing the importance of character building, resilience and long-term growth. Speaking about modern culture, she warned against the pursuit of instant gratification and emphasized the value of patience, discipline and perseverance.

Her remarks have sparked discussions about success, social media culture and the challenges facing younger generations in a fast-paced digital world.

Michelle Obama’s Message To Gen Z: Don't Chase Instant Gratification 

Dating trends have witnessed a generational shift. Gen Z and Millennials are different in things like having an ex around. A survey found that the former are fine with exes, but the latter are not. So we talked to some of them to see if they agree with the findings.

Dating trends have witnessed a generational shift. Gen Z and Millennials are different in things like having an ex around. A survey found that the former are fine with exes, but the latter are not. So we talked to some of them to see if they agree with the findings.

Gen Z is different from millennials when it comes to exes. But there is a catch

Generation clashes are common at work, with the older employees often complaining about the younger members. Now a new study has revealed that Gen Z do not trust the capabilities of their senior members to carry out any task.

Generation clashes are common at work, with the older employees often complaining about the younger members. Now a new study has revealed that Gen Z do not trust the capabilities of their senior members to carry out any task.

Gen Z return the favour, confess they do not trust the abilities of senior members at work

Gen Alpha might still be too young to know what they want in life, but they definitely know what they don't want. A survey has shown that a majority of them are clear on one thing - that they do not want to get married or have kids. Researchers talked to 13–16–year–olds and found that half of them are not interested in tying the knot, and only 56 per cent want to have children. Their life goals include financial independence and having close friends. However, despite being clear on what they want in life, they don't know how to be ready for adulthood, the Daily Mail reported. Dr John Allan, head of impact &amp; breakthrough learning at PGL Beyond, said, "Generation Alpha, many of whom are now approaching adulthood, are clear about what they want from their future." But, the research shows that "many don't yet feel ready for what comes next" and navigating life after completing their studies.&nbsp;A total of 700 Gen Alpha (2010-2024) between the ages of 13 and 16 were surveyed and asked about what they wanted to achieve in life. Merely 51 per cent said that marriage featured on their list of priorities. This is in line with the falling trend as the number of people tying the knot has declined over the years. The survey was carried out in the United Kingdom, where marriage and birth rates are steadily declining. Experts have warned that the number of young people willing to get married is declining and has dropped by almost a third since the 1960s.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gen-z-are-ditching-phones-and-books-while-travelling-to-tackle-back-to-office-mandate-9029308">Gen Z is 'barebacking' to tackle back-to-office mandate</a><h2>Desire for marriage drops with each generation, data shows</h2>According to estimates made by Marriage Foundation, a charity set up in view of family breakdown, 58 per cent of women and 56 per cent of men in the Gen Z group will tie the knot. For millennials (1981 and 1996) this figure was 67 per cent, up to 82 per cent for Gen X (1965 and 1980) and up to 96 per cent for Baby Boomers (1946 and 1964).Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/gen-z-officially-less-intelligent-than-millennials-first-recorded-intergenerational-iq-drop-1770115374340">Gen Z is officially less intelligent than millennials, first recorded intergenerational IQ drop</a>&nbsp;The latest study on Gen Alpha aligns with the past trend as experts warn a falling birth rate could lead to higher taxes. Data shows that deaths are set to outnumber births for the first time in the UK, and this might happen as soon as this year. It poses a major financial crisis as a small group of working people will be financially responsible for a much larger chunk of ageing population.

Gen Alpha might be going 6-7 all the time, but they are clearer about their life goals than any previous generation. According to a survey, this bunch does not believe in marriage and kids, and instead wants to make money and friends.

Gen Alpha might still be too young to know what they want in life, but they definitely know what they don't want. A survey has shown that a majority of them are clear on one thing - that they do not want to get married or have kids. Researchers talked to 13–16–year–olds and found that half of them are not interested in tying the knot, and only 56 per cent want to have children. Their life goals include financial independence and having close friends. However, despite being clear on what they want in life, they don't know how to be ready for adulthood, the Daily Mail reported. Dr John Allan, head of impact & breakthrough learning at PGL Beyond, said, "Generation Alpha, many of whom are now approaching adulthood, are clear about what they want from their future." But, the research shows that "many don't yet feel ready for what comes next" and navigating life after completing their studies. A total of 700 Gen Alpha (2010-2024) between the ages of 13 and 16 were surveyed and asked about what they wanted to achieve in life. Merely 51 per cent said that marriage featured on their list of priorities. This is in line with the falling trend as the number of people tying the knot has declined over the years. The survey was carried out in the United Kingdom, where marriage and birth rates are steadily declining. Experts have warned that the number of young people willing to get married is declining and has dropped by almost a third since the 1960s. Also Read: Gen Z is 'barebacking' to tackle back-to-office mandate Desire for marriage drops with each generation, data shows According to estimates made by Marriage Foundation, a charity set up in view of family breakdown, 58 per cent of women and 56 per cent of men in the Gen Z group will tie the knot. For millennials (1981 and 1996) this figure was 67 per cent, up to 82 per cent for Gen X (1965 and 1980) and up to 96 per cent for Baby Boomers (1946 and 1964). Also Read: Gen Z is officially less intelligent than millennials, first recorded intergenerational IQ drop The latest study on Gen Alpha aligns with the past trend as experts warn a falling birth rate could lead to higher taxes. Data shows that deaths are set to outnumber births for the first time in the UK, and this might happen as soon as this year. It poses a major financial crisis as a small group of working people will be financially responsible for a much larger chunk of ageing population.

Gen Alpha might be going 6-7 all the time, but they are clearer about their life goals than any previous generation. According to a survey, this bunch does not believe in marriage and kids, and instead wants to make money and friends.

Gen Alpha already know what they DO NOT want, and it's exactly what you think

Nepal’s Supreme Court is set to hear a habeas corpus petition filed on behalf of former Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli, challenging his recent arrest.

The petition questions the legality of Oli’s detention and seeks immediate judicial review. The case has sparked intense political debate in Nepal, with supporters calling the arrest unlawful and opponents defending the move.

Nepal SC to Hear KP Sharma Oli Plea | Habeas Corpus Filed Against Arrest

A new report cites former Nepalese Former Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli for inaction linked to civilian casualties during his tenure. Analysts say this sets a significant precedent in government accountability.

Nepal: Ex-PM KP Sharma Oli Held Liable Over Civilian Casualties in Nepal

For the first time in history, the younger generation has a lower IQ than the one before it. Neuroscientists are calling it a 'cognitive catastrophe.' From the death of the Flynn Effect to the rise of 'digital dementia,' we break down the reasons cited behind the great intelligence reversal. Is it the phones, social media or the AI?


First Time in History Young Generation Scores Lower | Screens May Be Dulling Intelligence 

The United States has issued a security alert for its citizens in Bangladesh ahead of the country’s national elections and a referendum scheduled for February 12, warning of possible political violence and extremist attacks during the polling period. The advisory was released by the US Embassy in Dhaka, citing heightened risks around election-related activities.


Dhaka: Elections on February 12 | US Issues Advisory For Nationals in Bangladesh

Nepalese political leader KP Sharma Oli is seeking a third term as party leader following a surge of youth-driven support, often referred to as the Gen Z uprising. Watch for the latest developments, political implications, and what this could mean for Nepal’s party dynamics and upcoming elections.

Nepal’s KP Sharma Oli Seeks Third Term Amid Youth Support Surge

Nepal faces growing political uncertainty as the country experiences a leadership vacuum, raising concerns about governance and stability. With key parties struggling to form a clear government, the nation confronts potential delays in policy-making and economic initiatives.

Nepal Protests: Interim PM Sushila Karki Calls For Calm

In September 2025, Nepal witnessed deadly clashes during youth-led “Gen Z” protests against government corruption and a sweeping social media ban. Human Rights Watch reports that security forces used excessive force, killing 17 protesters in Kathmandu alone, while the following day saw targeted arson and attacks on government buildings, media outlets, and schools.

Nepal Protests: Security Forces Accused of Lethal Force Against Youth

A shocking trend is emerging online — young Americans are rallying behind a CEO’s alleged killer, even funding his legal defence. Experts warn this reflects a rise in online radicalism and glorification of violence among Gen-Z.


USA: Rising online radicalism grips young Americans

Protests continue in Peru as Gen Z activists take to the streets demanding legislative reforms to address corruption and rising crime. Despite a state of emergency restricting movement and mass gatherings, demonstrators insist on voicing their concerns.

Peru Protests: Gen Z Demands Legislative Reforms to Tackle Corruption, Crimes 

Gen-Z protests are sweeping across the globe, with young activists demanding change on climate, social justice, and economic issues. Meanwhile, Ecuador faces severe disruptions as three weeks of strikes and roadblocks bring parts of the country to a standstill.


Morocco's Gen Z Protesters Return to Streets Calling For End To Corruption

Massive Protests Have Erupted In Peru’s Capital As Gen Z Leads A Wave Of Demonstrations Against Economic Hardship, Corruption, And Political Instability. The Youth Are Demanding Change, Transparency, And Accountability From The Government. What Sparked This Outrage? And Where Could It Lead? Here’s Everything You Need To Know About The Growing Unrest In Peru.

Gen Z Anger Spills on the Streets of Peru's Capital City

Nepal’s political landscape is in turmoil as the country's largest parties clash over key constitutional and governance issues. With coalition tensions rising and leadership stability in question, what lies ahead for the Himalayan democracy?

Nepal's Biggest Parties At Loggerheads: What's Next?

Guess what makes Gen Z’s social media habits so different? They don’t just scroll, they use short videos, memes, and trends to connect. Their world is fast, real, and full of surprises. Are millennials even close? Find out now!

Guess what makes Gen Z’s social media habits so different? They don’t just scroll, they use short videos, memes, and trends to connect. Their world is fast, real, and full of surprises. Are millennials even close? Find out now!

Gen Z vs Millennials: 8 social media habits that set them apart

Mass anti-corruption protests erupt across multiple countries following scandals involving massive taxpayer fraud and ghost projects. Thousands rally peacefully while some demonstrations turn violent, leading to over 200 arrests globally. Authorities brace for ongoing unrest as investigations deepen and demands for accountability grow worldwide.

Global arrests after mass anti-corruption protests worldwide

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