Young People Play a Crucial Role in Realizing the Dream of a Developed India: Vice President

Raipur, January 21

Vice President Shri Jagdeep Dhankhar addressed students from NIT, IIT, and IIM at the ‘Kalpanayein: Better India’ event held at Pandit Deendayal Upadhyay Auditorium in Raipur. He emphasized that young people have a crucial role in making the dream of a developed India a reality.

Interacting with students, Vice President Shri Dhankhar stated that they are studying in some of the country’s most prestigious educational institutions, where advanced technology education is being provided. He highlighted India’s focus on emerging technologies such as AI, machine learning, and green hydrogen. He asserted that by 2047, when India celebrates the centenary of its independence, the vision of a strong and developed India will not just be an aspiration but a definite destination.

Shri Dhankhar stressed that India is moving towards reclaiming its status as a global leader, driven by its youth. He urged citizens to use indigenous products instead of imported goods to contribute to strengthening the nation.

Governor Shri Ramen Deka stated that a strong India must be both self-reliant and globally connected. He emphasized that promoting a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship can help achieve this vision. By empowering rural communities through sustainable agriculture, encouraging tribal entrepreneurship, and investing in modern infrastructure, Chhattisgarh can become a beacon of inclusive and sustainable development.

Governor Shri Deka added that today’s youth are the architects of tomorrow and must be equipped with skills that integrate traditional knowledge with cutting-edge technology. He stressed the need for skill development programs and self-reliance initiatives to lay the foundation for a resilient economy and a united society. He also highlighted the importance of industry-oriented education and advanced research institutions to prepare young people for global challenges.

Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Deo Sai underscored the importance of deeply understanding India’s glorious history and ancient traditions in building a prosperous nation. He reminded the audience that India has been a global knowledge hub since ancient times, with universities like Takshashila and Nalanda gaining worldwide recognition. He emphasized that societies that learn from their past are the ones that achieve a prosperous future.

The Chief Minister also pointed out the need to recognize and address the challenges facing India. Whether it is semiconductor manufacturing or space technology, the country is rapidly advancing toward self-reliance. He stated that to combat climate change, India is focusing on “Green GDP,” reducing carbon emissions, and promoting green steel. He added that challenges always come with opportunities.

On this occasion, Vice President Shri Dhankhar laid the foundation stone for a girls’ hostel at the NIT campus. The hostel will be constructed with CSR funding from SECL.

The event was attended by Dr. Sudesh Dhankhar, wife of the Vice President; Deputy Chief Minister Shri Vijay Sharma; Union Minister of State for Housing and Urban Development Shri Tokhan Sahu; Chairman of the NIT Board of Governors Shri Suresh Haware; SECL CMD Dr. P.S. Mishra; IIT Director Prof. Rajeev Prakash; IIM Director Prof. R.K. Kakani; NIT Director Prof. N.V. Ramanna Rao; along with a large gathering of scholars and students from NIT, IIM, and IIT.