National Youth Festival

Source: This post on National Youth Festival has been created based on article “Forging Leadership with India’s Youth Power” published in The Hindu in 11^th January 2025.

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Context: The article discusses India’s National Youth Festival, celebrated annually on January 12, marking the birth anniversary of Swami Vivekananda, a pioneer of youth empowerment and nation-building. It highlights the launch of the Viksit Bharat Young Leaders Dialogue, an innovative platform designed to engage young Indians in the developmental journey of the nation. This initiative aligns with the vision of a Viksit Bharat (Developed India) and is rooted in Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s emphasis on the centrality of youth in India’s growth story. National Youth Festival

What is National Youth Festival, and why is it celebrated?

1. January 12 is celebrated as the National Youth Festival in India, marking the birth anniversary of Swami Vivekananda.
2. The festival aims to engage and empower Indian youth, fostering creativity, leadership, and national integration.

What is the Viksit Bharat Young Leaders Dialogue?

1. It is an initiative launched to harness the energy, creativity, and leadership of Indian youth to contribute towards a “Developed India” or Viksit Bharat.
2. It supports PM Narendra Modi’s belief in youth as central to India’s progress by providing a platform for discussions, idea exchanges, and collaboration on national challenges.

 What is the theme of the 2025 National Youth Festival?

1. The theme is “Youth for Sustainable Development,” highlighting young people’s role as drivers of global change.
2. There are few new elements that are introduced this year:
   1. Workshops on leadership and innovation: Topics include youth leadership, digital entrepreneurship, and sustainable living.
   2. Cultural programs: Celebrating India’s heritage through music, dance, and art.
   3. Tech showcases: Exhibitions by young innovators addressing real-world issues in health, education, agriculture, and more.
   4. Virtual participation: Digital platforms allow youth from remote areas to join discussions and workshops.
   5. Engagement with leaders: Interaction with experts from government, business, and academia.
   6. Recognition of contributions: Awards for exceptional youth leadership, innovation, and service.

What is MY Bharat’s role in the National Youth Festival?

1. As an autonomous body under the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, MY Bharat curates the festival’s programs, ensuring alignment with the aspirations of India’s youth.
2. It provides resources, mentorship, and opportunities to address social and technological challenges, encouraging innovative solutions for nation-building.
3. MY Bharat enables participation from across the country, ensuring inclusivity and broader representation.

How does the initiative reflect Swami Vivekananda’s philosophy?

It resonates with Vivekananda’s belief in the potential of youth, as he once said, “Give me one hundred ‘believing’ young men… I will transform India as the number one nation in the world.”