Governor Shiv Pratap Shukla today formally flagged off the Himachal Pradesh delegation for the “Viksit Bharat Young Leaders Dialogue/National Youth Festival-2026” from Lok Bhavan. The delegation, comprising 70 young participants, will represent the state at the national-level event organized by the Union Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports from 9th to 12th January 2026 at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi.
Congratulating the young leaders, the Governor encouraged them to present their ideas with confidence and conviction, emphasizing that ideas leave a lasting impact beyond winning or losing. He recalled the words of former President Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam, noting that dreams are those seen with open eyes. The Governor also urged the youth to stay away from drugs, stressing that “only a healthy and focused generation can meaningfully contribute to building a developed India and advance the nation’s progress.”
Expressing hope that the participants would effectively present the values and aspirations of Dev Bhoomi Himachal, Governor Shukla highlighted the importance of youth leadership in shaping national discussions.
The event was preceded by a welcome ceremony by Vijay Kumar, Assistant Director, MY Bharat Himachal Pradesh, and District Youth Officer Pradeep Kumar, who briefed the Governor about the selection process and objectives of the dialogue, which seeks to connect youth aged 15-29 with nation-building through leadership in policy, technology, sports, and sustainable development. NSS State Nodal Officer Dr. Saroj Bhardwaj proposed the vote of thanks.
Secretary to Governor C.P. Verma, Additional Director Youth Services and Sports Hitesh Azad, and other senior officials were also present on the occasion.
