Towering Edifice of Developed India and Chhattisgarh Will Be Built by Youth Power: CM Sai
Raipur, January 12
Chhattisgarh has been the land of Swami Vivekananda’s legacy. Swami Vivekananda spent two years of his teenage life at Day Bhavan here. When one arrives in Raipur by air and sees the airport named after Swami Vivekananda, it becomes evident that this city holds a special connection with him. From the serene Vivekananda Sarovar to various landmarks, the city’s reverence for Swami Vivekananda is apparent.
Addressing the inaugural ceremony of the three-day state-level Youth Festival held at Science College Grounds on the occasion of National Youth Day, Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Deo Sai stated that Swami Vivekananda played a significant role in shaping modern India. His historic speech at the 1893 Chicago World Parliament of Religions left the world in awe of Indian philosophy. Beginning his address with “American brothers and sisters,” he exemplified the Indian philosophy of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam (the world is one family). At the time, American newspapers noted that his speech revealed profound Indian values unknown to the West.
The Chief Minister emphasized that the towering edifice of a developed India and Chhattisgarh will be built by the youth. “Our youth are the future of the state. With their strength and resolve, we are advancing rapidly toward rebuilding the state.” Referring to past recruitment scandals, he mentioned how these had demoralized the youth but assured that the new government has restored transparency, particularly in the PSC examinations, with investigations handed over to the CBI.
He added, “This year, exams were conducted transparently. After results were declared, we invited toppers for recognition. Their satisfaction was evident as they shared how the anti-corruption measures reinstated their faith in the system. The government is committed to organizing PSC exams based on the UPSC pattern, enabling youth to succeed in central services.”
Highlighting the government’s initiatives, he stated that the number of seats in the Delhi Youth Hostel was increased from 50 to 185, providing aspiring UPSC candidates better facilities. A yearly calendar for Vyapam exams has also been released, ensuring timely exams and expedited recruitment processes.
Regarding industrial development, the Chief Minister discussed the new industrial policy aimed at maximizing local employment. Industries offering over 1,000 jobs to locals will receive special grants. With an anticipated investment of ₹2.5 lakh crore in the next five years, around five lakh new jobs are expected to be created.
He praised the talents of Chhattisgarh’s youth, encouraging startups with coworking spaces and IT sector opportunities in Naya Raipur, which is set to become a new IT hub.
Talking about the Bastar Olympics, he mentioned that 1.65 lakh participants from the Bastar division showcased their skills. Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi also praised the event during his Mann Ki Baat program. The state is committed to the development of sports infrastructure and athlete training.
The Chief Minister concluded by urging the youth to work with enthusiasm and assured them of their pivotal role in achieving the vision of a developed India and Chhattisgarh.
Presiding over the event, Chhattisgarh Assembly Speaker Dr. Raman Singh highlighted Swami Vivekananda’s inspiring call to action: “Arise, awake, and stop not until the goal is achieved.” He expressed confidence that by 2047, Chhattisgarh would rank among the developed states, powered by its youth.
The festival was also addressed by Deputy Chief Ministers Shri Arun Sao and Shri Vijay Sharma, and Sports and Youth Welfare Minister Shri Tankaram Verma. Other dignitaries present included Food Minister Shri Dayaldas Baghel, MLAs Shri Rajesh Munat and Shri Guru Khushwant Sahib, Chhattisgarh Youth Commission Chairman Shri Vishwajit Singh Tomar, and numerous youth and citizens from across the state.