Union Minister for Youth Affairs and Sports Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya has called upon India’s youth to become active partners in nation-building and lead the country’s transformation into a developed nation by 2047.
Addressing the Viksit Bharat Yuva Samvaad at S. M. Jadeja Arts and Commerce College in Kutiyana, Porbandar district, on Saturday, the Minister emphasised that the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047 could be achieved through youth leadership, patriotism, discipline, civic responsibility and collective commitment.
Highlighting the significance of the 25-year Amrit Kaal leading up to the centenary of India’s Independence, Mandaviya said every citizen has a role to play in building a developed, self-reliant and prosperous India.
Youth at the heart of nation-building:
Referring to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Panch Pran — the five national pledges articulated from the Red Fort — the Minister urged young people to work towards a developed India, shed the colonial mindset, take pride in the country’s heritage, strengthen national unity and fulfil their civic duties.
He stressed that nation-building was not limited to those holding positions of authority. Students, teachers, employees and ordinary citizens could contribute meaningfully by performing their responsibilities sincerely and placing national interest above personal considerations.
Mandaviya also called upon young people to cultivate discipline, integrity, hard work, self-reliance, respect for elders and a spirit of service.
Initiative to develop one lakh young leaders:
The Minister highlighted efforts being undertaken under the Prime Minister’s guidance to develop one lakh young leaders across the country, aimed at strengthening youth participation in governance and nation-building.
He underlined the role of the MY Bharat portal in connecting young people with opportunities for participation, career guidance and leadership development.
Initiatives involving visits to border villages and interactions with personnel serving in challenging locations, including the Siachen Glacier, were also highlighted as ways to nurture courage, patriotism, responsibility and a commitment to national service.
Caution against misinformation in the digital age:
Addressing the growing influence of social media, Mandaviya urged young people to exercise responsibility while consuming and sharing information online.
He emphasised the need to verify information through credible news sources, avoid spreading rumours and remain alert to misinformation that could threaten national unity and social stability.
Call for a drug-free India:
Reiterating the importance of the Nasha Mukt Bharat mission, the Minister called upon young citizens to actively contribute towards building a society free from substance abuse.
He emphasised that a healthy, disciplined and responsible youth population would be essential to achieving India’s development ambitions.
Urging young people to embrace the principle of ‘Nation First’, Mandaviya encouraged them to work collectively towards a drug-free India and the national goal of Viksit Bharat 2047, expressing confidence in the resolve: “We Will Do It.”
The Viksit Bharat Yuva Samvaad reinforced the importance of empowering young citizens with leadership skills, strong civic values and a sense of national responsibility as India advances towards its centenary of Independence in 2047.
