Unprecedented technological innovation, emergence of new digital pedagogies driven by technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), is reshaping the way content is delivered across classrooms. It has redefined the role of educators and students. The pathway from classroom (physical as well as virtual) to boardroom is now cobbled with multiple diverse stepping stones which if not tread carefully may become a stumbling block in a learner’s career. Peer pressure, shrinking job market and global uncertainties have now more than before necessitated the need for correct guidance to allow every young mind and soul to contribute in Prime Minister Modi’s dream of ‘Viksit Bharat 2047’. This paper explores the role that must be played by Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) in India, in providing effective career guidance to youth especially in the context of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. It discusses how career guidance and placement cells in HEIs can support youth empowerment, employability, and provide equitable access to opportunities. Data was collected over a period of five years i.e. from year 2020 to year 2025, from 1400 graduates of a Nagpur city-based Commerce college. Structured questionnaire and interviews were used. Analysis of the collected data reveals that correct career guidance led to decrease in dropout rates of students. Besides there was a considerable shift in career choices made by commerce students. This paper provides empirical evidence in support of the proposition that career guidance initiatives have a positive impact on students in terms of increasing the number of students who pursue further education after graduation and influences their shift from traditional commerce programs to non- traditional programs