Youth-led protests over exam irregularities and job prospects have forced Narendra Modi's government into a rare retreat, raising questions about the Indian prime minister's political dominance and the strength of Brand Modi ahead of key state elections.

For a decade, Modi has governed as a strong and decisive figure who admits few mistakes, and his government had long resisted sacking ministers under pressure. The first test of…

Narendra Modi's government has a history of taking a tough stance on protesters, but with millions of India's young people at the gates, something finally had to give.