Opinion | Viksit Bharat Young Leaders’ Dialogue: Shaping India's Future Through Youth Empowerment

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The Viksit Bharat Young Leaders Dialogue, a pivotal initiative in this direction, exemplifies how India is empowering its youth to contribute meaningfully to nation-building

Young leaders from across India will present their ideas directly to Prime Minister Narendra Modi on January 11. (PTI File)
Young leaders from across India will present their ideas directly to Prime Minister Narendra Modi on January 11. (PTI File)

India, a nation on the brink of transformative development, holds a unique position as a global powerhouse driven by the aspirations and potential of its youth. With a median age of just 29 years, India boasts one of the youngest populations in the world. This demographic dividend is both a formidable advantage and a call to action for harnessing the energy, creativity, and leadership of its young citizens. The Viksit Bharat Young Leaders Dialogue, a pivotal initiative in this direction, exemplifies how India is empowering its youth to contribute meaningfully to nation-building.

The dialogue is designed to engage and empower India’s youth in shaping the nation’s future through a four-stage competition. It is spearheaded by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports and culminates in a grand event where young leaders from across India present their ideas directly to Prime Minister Narendra Modi on January 11, 2025 at the Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi. It symbolises the government’s commitment to providing a platform for the youth to join in nation-building, voice their ideas, showcase their leadership potential, and contribute to the roadmap for a developed Bharat by 2047.

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    As someone privileged to be part of this extraordinary initiative, I had the unique opportunity to conduct the final round interviews of the young champions for the states of Maharashtra and Gujarat, engaging with some of the brightest and most motivated young minds of the states. This article reflects on the significance of the Viksit Bharat Young Leaders Dialogue, my personal experiences during the interviews, and the transformative role of India’s youth in achieving the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047.

    Significance of the Viksit Bharat Young Leaders Dialogue

    The Viksit Bharat Young Leaders Dialogue, a reimagining of the National Youth Festival, is not just an event but a movement designed to inspire, empower, and engage India’s youth in shaping the nation’s future.

    The dialogue seeks to empower future leaders who can think critically, innovate solutions to complex challenges, and lead purposefully. By involving students and young professionals from diverse backgrounds, it ensures inclusivity and equity in leadership development.

    India’s demographic dividend is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to propel economic growth and social progress. The dialogue aims to channel this potential by engaging the youth in meaningful discussions and actions that align with national priorities.

    India’s Demographic Dividend: A Unique Advantage

    India’s youthful population is not only a national but also a global asset. With over 65% of its population under the age of 35, the country is poised to reap immense benefits from its demographic dividend. However, this potential can only be realised if the youth are equipped with the right skills, opportunities, and platforms.

    1. A Growing Workforce: By 2047, India is expected to have the largest working-age population in the world. This provides a competitive edge in driving economic growth, innovation, and productivity.
    2. Entrepreneurial Spirit: The youth of India have demonstrated remarkable entrepreneurial capabilities, which is evident in the rise of start-ups and unicorns across the country. Platforms like the Viksit Bharat Young Leaders Dialogue nurture this spirit by encouraging innovative ideas and solutions.
    3. Leadership for Social Change: Beyond economic contributions, young leaders are at the forefront of addressing social and global challenges. Their active participation in initiatives like this dialogue ensures holistic national development.

    My Experience with the Final Round Interviews

    Conducting the final round interviews for Maharashtra and Gujarat was an eye-opening experience that reaffirmed my belief in the transformative power of India’s youth. The sessions were marked by enthusiasm, creativity, and a deep sense of purpose among the participants.

    1. Tremendous Enthusiasm, Knowledge, and Motivation: The students demonstrated exceptional enthusiasm, a deep understanding of India’s challenges and opportunities, and an inspiring level of motivation. Their passion for contributing meaningfully to nation-building and achieving the vision of Viksit Bharat by 2047 was truly commendable.
    2. Keen Interest in Public Service and Governance: Many students expressed a strong desire to serve the nation by working in government and politics. They are eager to address critical challenges and contribute to India’s growth.
    3. Extraordinary Respect for Prime Minister Modi: The youth’s admiration, respect, and trust for Prime Minister Narendra Modi were extraordinary. His vision, leadership, and commitment to transforming India were cited as a huge source of inspiration and motivation, driving them to contribute to Viksit Bharat.
    4. Remarkable Positivity Among Rural Students: Students from rural areas and those who have faced personal challenges stood out for their unwavering positivity and motivation. Their determination to overcome obstacles and work towards nation-building was inspiring. These individuals are a testament to the resilience and potential of India’s youth.
    5. Outstanding Performance of Female Participants: It is noteworthy that a majority of the top-scoring students were girls. Their confidence, depth of knowledge, and leadership potential were particularly striking. This trend underscores the growing empowerment of young women in India.

    The insights gathered during these interviews reaffirm the tremendous potential of India’s youth to contribute meaningfully toward our nation’s development. It also highlights the importance of creating targeted programmes to nurture their aspirations, equip them with the necessary skills, and provide platforms to realise their leadership potential.

    Youth as Catalysts for Viksit Bharat 2047

    The vision of Viksit Bharat 2047—a developed and prosperous India—is inextricably linked to the active participation of its youth. Here’s how they will play a pivotal role:

    1. Driving Economic Growth: With their innovative mindset and entrepreneurial spirit, young Indians will be instrumental in propelling industries, creating jobs, and boosting the economy.
    2. Championing Sustainability: Youth are at the forefront of advocating for sustainable practices in business, governance, or personal lifestyles. Their involvement is crucial for achieving environmental goals.
    3. Strengthening Social Fabric: By championing inclusivity and diversity, the youth can strengthen India’s social fabric, ensuring that progress benefits all sections of society.
    4. Shaping Global Leadership: As India aspires to be a global leader, its youth will play a key role in representing the nation on international platforms, contributing to diplomacy, innovation, and cultural exchange.

    A Call to Action

    The Viksit Bharat Young Leaders Dialogue is not merely a competition but a clarion call for India’s youth to rise to the occasion and take charge of the nation’s destiny. It underscores the government’s faith in the younger generation as the principal architects of a developed India.

    To the youth of India, this is your moment to shine. Your ideas, energy, and leadership are the building blocks of Viksit Bharat. Participate actively, think critically, and contribute wholeheartedly to this transformative initiative.

    It is imperative to create more platforms like the Viksit Bharat Young Leaders Dialogue that nurture young talent, provide mentorship, and equip them with the tools to lead effectively.

    Conclusion

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      The Viksit Bharat Young Leaders Dialogue is more than an event—it is a movement that embodies the aspirations of a young and vibrant India. My experience with the initiative has left me deeply inspired and optimistic about the future. The passion, intelligence, and resilience of India’s youth reaffirm that the dream of Viksit Bharat 2047 is not just achievable but inevitable.

      As we approach this milestone, let us empower our young leaders to take centre stage and ensure their voices shape the nation’s path to progress. Together, let us build a Viksit Bharat—a nation that is not only developed but also inclusive, equitable, and visionary.

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