Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has called upon India’s youth to become job creators, problem-solvers and catalysts of positive change, underlining their growing role in strengthening the country’s technological, industrial and strategic capabilities.
Addressing students at the convocation ceremony of Babasaheb Bhimrao Ambedkar University in Lucknow on Saturday, Singh said India’s young population must combine knowledge, innovation and ethical values to contribute to the national objective of Viksit Bharat by 2047.
Invoking Dr BR Ambedkar’s “Educate, Agitate and Organise” message, the Defence Minister stressed that injustice and social challenges must be confronted through constitutional and democratic mechanisms rather than violence or unconstitutional methods.
Youth at the centre of India’s technology push:
Singh highlighted the rapid transformation taking place in technology and innovation, urging young Indians to continuously acquire new skills and remain adaptable in a rapidly changing global environment.
He pointed to the government’s focus on Aatmanirbhar Bharat, semiconductor manufacturing, digital public infrastructure, start-ups and domestic manufacturing, saying these initiatives are helping convert national challenges into opportunities.
For the defence sector, the emphasis on self-reliance and indigenous technological capability carries particular significance as India seeks to strengthen its domestic defence-industrial base and reduce dependence on foreign sources.
Space sector showcases growing indigenous capability:
Highlighting India’s progress in space technology, Singh said the country has moved from conducting missions with limited resources to pursuing advanced programmes, including human spaceflight and an Indian space station.
He also pointed to the expanding role of private-sector space companies, with Indian start-ups making advances in launch vehicles and satellite technologies.
The Defence Minister said the wider research and innovation ecosystem has also expanded significantly, with expenditure on research and development doubling over the past 12 years. He cited India’s improved position in the Global Innovation Index and its emergence as the world’s third-largest start-up ecosystem.
From job seekers to technology creators:
Singh urged universities to develop students capable of translating knowledge into practical solutions.
“True education develops the ability to think and understand, while honing practical and problem-solving skills,” he said, adding that knowledge must ultimately be deployed for the benefit of society.
He also drew upon Swami Vivekananda’s vision to encourage young Indians to pursue nation-building alongside personal advancement.
‘Team India’ approach to Viksit Bharat:
Singh called for a collective national effort, saying individual contributions can drive progress but a united resolve can accelerate development significantly.
He urged students to work as part of ‘Team India’ and contribute towards the goal of building a Viksit Bharat by 2047.
The Defence Minister also stressed resilience, determination and hard work, urging the youth not to fear uncertainty but to focus on developing solutions and continuously improving their capabilities.
Cultural confidence alongside economic power:
Singh said India’s rise cannot be judged only through economic indicators. While economic strength makes a nation prosperous, he said, cultural self-confidence makes it great.
He called upon young Indians to take pride in the country’s civilisation, languages, knowledge traditions and cultural heritage.
“Believe in India” is the spirit behind the success of “Make in India”, Singh said, asserting that the country is increasingly confident in its civilisational heritage and future potential.
The address comes as India continues to position its young population as a key driver of technological innovation, indigenous manufacturing and long-term national capability.
Uttar Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Brajesh Pathak, Babasaheb Bhimrao Ambedkar University Vice-Chancellor Prof Raj Kumar Mittal, faculty members and university staff were present at the event.
