The government’s recognition of January 12 as National Youth Day and the subsequent National Youth Week underscores the belief that the vision and values championed by Swami Vivekananda can guide the youth towards building a progressive and inclusive nation.
In the spirit of this legacy, the National Youth Festival (NYF) is organised annually in January under the National Programme for Youth and Adolescent Development (NPYAD). This event celebrates Swamiji’s life and ideas while fostering national integration and showcasing the vibrancy of India’s youth.
Here’s a look at how the government has now reimagined the National Youth Festival:
Viksit Bharat Young Leaders Dialogue
In 2025, the National Youth Festival is set to undergo a transformative reimagining as the “Viksit Bharat Young Leaders Dialogue.” This bold initiative aligns with the vision of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who has consistently emphasised the pivotal role of youth in shaping India’s future. The reimagined festival will serve as a dynamic platform, empowering young Indians to contribute innovative ideas and perspectives towards achieving the vision of a developed India by 2047.
The centerpiece of the Viksit Bharat Young Leaders Dialogue lies in its focus on identifying and nurturing young talent. By providing a platform for the youth to directly interact with the Prime Minister and other national leaders, this initiative seeks to enhance youth engagement in governance, politics, and civic life. It echoes the Prime Minister’s call to involve one lakh young people from non-political backgrounds in shaping India’s developmental trajectory.
A Four-Stage Competition to Empower Youth
A major highlight of the reimagined festival is the introduction of the Viksit Bharat Challenge—a four-stage competition designed to inspire and engage the youth in nation-building. The stages include:
-
- Viksit Bharat Quiz: Hosted on the Mera Yuva Bharat (MY Bharat) platform, this digital quiz will test participants’ knowledge of India’s achievements.
- Essay/Blog Writing: Winners of the quiz will write essays on themes such as “Tech for Viksit Bharat” and “Empowering Youth for Viksit Bharat,” showcasing their ideas for national development.
- Viksit Bharat Vision Pitch Deck: At the state level, participants will present their ideas, with state teams formed to compete at the national level.
- National Championship: State-level winners will present their ideas at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi on January 11-12, 2025, with the opportunity to present their vision directly to the Prime Minister.
This structured approach ensures a merit-based, transparent system to identify young leaders capable of driving India’s growth and development.
Diverse Participation and Engagement
The festival will convene a diverse group of approximately 3,000 young people across three key verticals:
-
- Participants from the Viksit Bharat Challenge: Young innovators and thinkers selected through the competition.
- Talented Youth from District and State-Level Festivals: Competitions in areas such as painting, cultural performances, and science exhibitions will spotlight emerging talent.
- Youth Icons and Pathbreakers: Notable individuals from fields such as entrepreneurship, sports, agriculture, and technology will inspire attendees with their achievements and vision.
Additional Highlights of the Dialogue
The Viksit Bharat Young Leaders Dialogue promises a rich array of activities and opportunities:
-
- Viksit Bharat Exhibition: Featuring youth-focused initiatives from States/UTs and Central Ministries, this exhibition will highlight flagship programs, youth-centric projects, and opportunities for leadership and innovation.
- Plenary Sessions: National and global icons will engage in interactive dialogues and workshops, providing participants with valuable insights and inspiration.
- Cultural Celebrations: Honoring India’s heritage, the festival will feature performances and exhibits that embody the vibrancy of the nation’s traditions.
The Role of Youth in Achieving Viksit Bharat @2047
India’s youth are its greatest strength, embodying creativity, innovation, and resilience. The Viksit Bharat initiative envisions a developed India by the centenary of its independence in 2047, emphasising inclusive development, sustainability, and effective governance. The active involvement of youth is central to this vision, as articulated by Prime Minister Modi: “Youth power is both the agent of change and the beneficiary of change.”
The Viksit Bharat Young Leaders Dialogue is not merely an event but a movement to empower India’s youth as catalysts of progress. By channeling their energy and ideas, this initiative aims to align their aspirations with the nation’s developmental goals, fostering a future of self-reliance and innovation.
Mera Yuva Bharat (MY Bharat) Initiative
The MY Bharat platform, established in 2023, represents a significant leap forward in youth development. By leveraging technology to create equal opportunities, this platform empowers young people to achieve their aspirations and actively contribute to building a developed India. Through strategic collaborations and inclusive efforts, MY Bharat underscores the government’s commitment to youth-led progress.
Conclusion
As we approach 2047, the centenary of India’s independence, the role of youth in realising the vision of a Viksit Bharat cannot be overstated. The reimagined National Youth Festival—now the Viksit Bharat Young Leaders Dialogue—serves as a transformative platform for young Indians to showcase their talents, engage with thought leaders, and contribute meaningfully to the nation’s development.
Swami Vivekananda’s ideals continue to inspire us, reminding us that the youth are the architects of a brighter future. Let us seize this opportunity to empower our young minds, fostering a nation that is not only developed but also inclusive, innovative, and deeply rooted in its cultural heritage. Together, we can turn the vision of Viksit Bharat @2047 into a reality.
—The author, Tuhin A. Sinha, is National Spokesperson, BJP. The views expressed are personal.
