The Aryavarth Express
New Delhi, January 12: Union Minister Hardeep Singh Puri on Sunday said that the vision of Viksit Bharat is not merely a target to be achieved by 2047, but an ongoing process in which the youth of the country are active participants. He also thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi and others involved in conceptualising the Viksit Bharat Young Leaders Dialogue programme.
Speaking to reporters, Puri praised the quality of interaction and the depth of questions raised by young participants. “It reinforces the understanding that Viksit Bharat is not just a destination for 2047, but part of a continuous process in which young people are participating. The questions were of very high quality—on sustainability, green transition, clean air, and clean rivers. These are very positive signs,” he said.
He further highlighted the importance of networking among youth from different parts of the country. “The opportunity for young people to come together and interact with peers from across India is a tremendous learning experience. I would like to compliment and thank the Prime Minister and everyone involved in designing this programme,” Puri added.
The third day of the Viksit Bharat Young Leaders Dialogue 2026, organised under the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, began with enthusiasm at Bharat Mandapam. The event featured an address by Union Minister for Youth Affairs and Sports and Labour and Employment, Mansukh Mandaviya, an interactive session with ISRO astronauts, and a cultural programme showcasing India’s diversity, according to an official release.
Earlier, National Security Advisor Ajit Doval, addressing the opening ceremony on Friday, reflected on the sacrifices made during India’s struggle for independence. He said India’s freedom came at a tremendous cost, with generations enduring humiliation, destruction, and loss.
Urging the youth to draw strength from history, Doval said the nation must be rebuilt on its own values, rights, and beliefs. “Our ancestors made immense sacrifices. They faced gallows, saw villages burned, temples looted, and civilisation destroyed. This history should ignite a fire in today’s youth to rebuild a strong and great India,” he said.
He also noted that while India’s ancient civilisation was advanced and peaceful, neglect of security challenges in the past had led to painful lessons, underscoring the need for vigilance and national strength.
