Paper short abstract:

Youths in disaster are recognized as resources but they tend to become marginalized as less knowledge is available about their vulnerability. A structured programme for the youths can ensure their social statues, psychosocial wellbeing by reducing socio-political and economic vulnerabilities.

Paper long abstract:

Youths are full of energy, though atypically a very venerable and marginalized section in the disaster intervention. Immediately after a disaster the youths emerge as savior for all, suddenly become a prominent figure in community. The vulnerability of the youths starts after the rescue phase as the reality become prominent in life and youths lose their sudden heroic phase. A state of mental stress, combined with inability to provide support to the family, not having any job, complexities in daily life cause a serious psychosocial vulnerability among the youths.

In Gujarat riots (2002), the youths were being mobilized by the political parties and religious hardcore groups to instigate trouble in the 'post-Godhra-train burning" period. The lower caste Hindu 'Dalit' communities and Muslim youths were set against each other. This serious vulnerability was realized by the 'Aman Samudaya' (Consortium for peace) programme and 'Gujarat Harmony project'. Subsequently, programme was developed to bring these youth in the forefront of peacemaking process. South Indian Tsunami (2004) was a grave professional challenge as the youths in various relief camps were unknowingly indulged at high risk behaviour. NIMHANS and Red Cross designed special intervention for engaging and showed essential change in their motivation and satisfaction.

In disaster rehabilitation youths can be used as most effective resource if considerable policy decision is made with cultural significance about involving youths with direction. Unplanned intervention causes a threat to the well being of the youths who tend to become an easy target for political exploitation and socio-economic deprivation.