– Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, Union Minister for Youth Affairs, Sports, Labour & Employment
New Delhi: India is marching towards its centenary of independence in 2047, and its youth stand at the forefront of the mission to build a developed nation. Aligned with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s call to involve 100,000 youths with no prior political background into politics, the Viksit Bharat Yuva Neta Samvad 2025 has been conceptualized as an extraordinary campaign under the National Youth Festival. This initiative is not merely an event but a movement aimed at youth empowerment, leadership, and actionable ideas in harmony with the vision of a “Viksit Bharat” (Developed India).
Reimagining the National Youth Festival
For over two decades, the National Youth Festival has been a beacon of cultural exchange and youthful energy. However, 2024 marked a transformative shift, announced on November 18, with the festival now centered on leadership, innovation, and nation-building.
At its core lies the Viksit Bharat Challenge, a three-phase competition designed to identify and nurture India’s brightest young minds. Built on merit, inclusion, and transparency, it ensures equal opportunities for every young Indian, regardless of geography or background.
The Three Phases: A Nationwide Search for Talent
- Viksit Bharat Quiz:
Nearly 3 million youths participated in this initial phase, conducted in 12 languages, testing their knowledge of India’s progress over the decades and ensuring inclusivity. - Viksit Bharat Essay Competition:
Over 200,000 essays were submitted on topics such as leveraging technology for development, embracing sustainability, preserving cultural heritage, and making India a global sports powerhouse. Evaluated by expert panels, these essays offered insights into the creativity, analytical thinking, and originality of India’s youth. - Viksit Bharat Vision Deck Competition:
Top participants advanced to state-level championships, presenting innovative ideas before panels of domain experts and leadership mentors. This phase emphasized grassroots perspectives and showcased the ability of young Indians to think globally while acting locally.
From the hills of the Northeast and villages of Rajasthan and Gujarat to coastal cities in Tamil Nadu, inspiring stories emerged of youth leaders overcoming social barriers, logistical challenges, and personal struggles to present their vision for a developed India.
The Grand Samvad: A Historic Convergence
The Viksit Bharat Yuva Neta Samvad will officially commence on January 10, 2025, at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi. Bringing together 3,000 participants, the event is divided into three tracks:
- Viksit Bharat Challenge Track: Featuring 1,500 participants representing 500 state championship-winning teams.
- Traditional Track: Showcasing India’s cultural diversity with 1,000 participants selected from state-level youth festivals.
- Pathfinders Track: Celebrating 500 individuals recognized for exceptional contributions to thematic areas.
Participants will engage in cultural and thematic presentations, competitions, and visits to iconic sites like the Prime Ministers Museum and the National War Memorial. A special dinner with Union Ministers and MPs will provide a platform for informal dialogue, connecting youth aspirations with policymaking.
Inauguration and Visionary Deliberations
The formal opening session on January 11, 2025, will feature national icons, thought leaders, and innovators. Ten key thematic discussions led by advisors and domain experts will shape the narrative, followed by cultural showcases under the banner “Viksit Bharat ke Rang,” reflecting India’s artistic heritage and youth potential.
National Youth Day: A Vision for Viksit Bharat
The concluding day, January 12, 2025, coinciding with National Youth Day and Swami Vivekananda’s birth anniversary, will mark the event’s pinnacle. Top ten ideas from the thematic track will be presented to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, offering young innovators a platform to propel their initiatives.
This day will also feature an exclusive luncheon with the Prime Minister and other eminent leaders, fostering meaningful exchanges and empowering participants with a sense of belonging and inspiration.
The grand plenary session led by the Prime Minister will underscore the transformative role of India’s youth in shaping a developed nation. Participants will leave inspired to act as catalysts for change.
A Movement of Empowerment and Inclusion
The Viksit Bharat Yuva Neta Samvad 2025 exemplifies the government’s commitment to youth empowerment through its inclusive selection process, actionable ideas, and emphasis on innovation. By providing a stage for transformative thoughts and direct engagement with national and global leaders, this initiative sets a benchmark for youth participation in governance.
As India strides toward 2047, the dialogue reflects a deep belief in the potential of its youth as architects of a developed and self-reliant nation.
