During the NDTV Yuva 2026 session titled 'Soft Power: The Storyteller', experts discussed the impact of social media on storytelling and content consumption among young people. Ria Chopra, a bestselling author, highlighted that while smartphone usage may suggest a decline in reading, many returned to books during the COVID-19 pandemic. She emphasized the need for relatable stories in media that reflect young people's experiences, rather than relying on stereotypes. Ahsan Vazir, an actor and digital creator, advocated for authenticity over chasing trends, noting that virality does not equate to quality content. Both speakers acknowledged that while attention spans are decreasing, compelling storytelling can still capture interest. They concluded that the medium may change, but the desire for engaging narratives remains strong, suggesting that young audiences can still appreciate longer content if it is well-crafted.