The annual National Youth Festival (NYF) has undergone a significant transformation this year, reimagined as the Viksit Bharat Young Leaders Dialogue 2025. Held from January 10 to 12 at Bharat Mandapam, the event marks a pivotal step in engaging India’s youth in the national-building process.
Organized by Union Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya, the festival coincides with National Youth Day on January 12, celebrated annually in honor of Swami Vivekananda’s birth anniversary. A visionary philosopher and youth icon, Vivekananda popularly known as Swamiji’s legacy continues to inspire India’s young minds, shaping the country’s future.
A vision for Viksit Bharat
The Vikist Bharat Young Leaders Dialogue aligns with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s goal of transforming India into a developed nation by 20247. Speaking about the initiative, PM Modi emphasized “Youth power is both the agent of change and the beneficiary of change.” The event aims to harness the energy, creativity, and ideas of India’s youth, offering them a platform to contribute directly to governance and development.
Key highlights of the festival
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Viksit Bharat Challenge: a multi-stage competition to identify and nurture talent, featuring:
- Bharat Quiz: A digital knowledge quiz in the “Mera Yuva Bharat” (My Young Bhart) platform.
- Essay/Blog Writing: topics include “Tech for Viksit Bharat” and “Empowering Youth for Viksit Bharat.”
- Viksit Bharat Vision Pitch Deck: State-level pitch competitors for development ideas.
- National Championship: The finalist presents their vision to national leaders, including the Prime Minister.
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Youth Participation: around 3,000 participants from diverse backgrounds including:
- Innovators and thinkers selected through the Viksit Bharat Challenge.
- Talented youth showcasing art, science, and cultural performances.
- Youth icons from sports, technology, and entrepreneurship sectors.
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Exhibitions and performances:
- Display of youth-focused projects and states and ministries.
- Interactive sessions with national and international leaders.
- Cultural showcase celebrating India’s heritage and diversity.
Empowering youth for change
Launched in 2023, the ‘My Bharat platform’ has been a key enabler for youth empowerment, connecting them with resources and tools to contribute to India’s progress. The Viksit Bharat Young Leaders Dialogue builds on this foundation, encouraging youth to engage in meaningful discussions and initiatives that shape the future of the nation.
As the event unfolds, it is poised to not only celebrate the potential of India’s youth but also channel their energy into achieving a Viksit Bharat by 2047.