India's demographic dividend is now a liability due to educated unemployment, sparking student protests. The article notes the paradox of economic growth amidst joblessness and widening inequality. Student agitations expose structural flaws in education and the job market. Instead of sustainable solutions, politicians increasingly rely on unconditional cash transfers (UCTs). The author deems UCTs temporary fixes, often politically motivated, insufficient to address deep-seated issues or satisfy youth's demand for meaningful jobs, thus posing a long-term political risk.