New Delhi, Correspondent

A growing number of young residents in Delhi are contemplating a future beyond the national capital, reflecting shifting aspirations and mounting concerns over quality of life. A recent survey indicates that 8.8% of respondents are either planning to leave or considering leaving the city, a sharp rise from 2.4% in 2005.


The findings highlight a significant change in public perception over the past two decades, particularly among the youth seeking better living standards, safer surroundings and improved healthcare access.


Key Survey Findings
8.8% of respondents in 2024 are considering leaving Delhi
The figure stood at 2.4% in 2005
Growing concerns over healthcare infrastructure and cost of living
Improved access to electricity, water and sanitation since 2005


Healthcare Under Scrutiny
Healthcare infrastructure has emerged as a major area of concern.
73% of respondents flagged overcrowding and mismanagement in government hospitals.
22% said private hospitals offer better care, but high treatment costs remain a barrier.
The data reflects a widening gap between expectations and service delivery, particularly for young families and working professionals.


A Positive Turn in Maternal Health
On a more encouraging note, institutional deliveries have increased significantly — from 73% in 2005 to 96% in 2024. Health experts attribute this improvement to expanded public health outreach and better awareness, leading to a decline in maternal and infant mortality rates.


Infrastructure Gains, Lifestyle Pressures
The survey points to notable progress in basic civic amenities. Access to electricity, drinking water and sanitation has improved considerably over the years.


However, experts caution that infrastructure upgrades alone may not be sufficient. Rising living costs, intense job competition and environmental concerns — including pollution and transport congestion — continue to shape migration decisions.


Youth Priorities: Education, Jobs and Safety
Young residents increasingly prioritize:
Quality education
Stable employment opportunities
Safer and cleaner neighborhoods
Balanced work-life environments
While Delhi’s IT sector, service industry and startup ecosystem have created fresh opportunities, affordability and quality-of-life challenges remain pressing issues.


What Experts Say
Urban policy analysts suggest that targeted reforms in healthcare, public transport and environmental management could help reverse the outflow trend.


“Delhi is evolving — stronger in infrastructure but still grappling with service delivery and environmental stress,” an expert noted. “The city’s ability to retain its youth will depend on how effectively it addresses these concerns.”

A City at a Crossroads
Delhi stands at a pivotal moment. It has strengthened its physical infrastructure and expanded essential services, yet aspirations of its younger population are rising faster than ever.


Whether the capital can hold on to its “young wings” will depend on its capacity to combine growth with livability — ensuring that opportunity does not come at the cost of quality of life.