Jammu, January 07, 2026: Lieutenant Governor Shri Manoj Sinha on Wednesday virtually flagged off a 53-member youth contingent from the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir to participate in the 29th National Youth Festival–Viksit Bharat Young Leaders’ Dialogue 2026, to be held in New Delhi.
The contingent, selected under the Viksit Bharat Challenge Track and the Cultural/Innovation Track, will represent Jammu and Kashmir at the prestigious national event scheduled at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi, from January 10 to 12, 2026.
Interacting with the participants through virtual mode, the Lieutenant Governor extended his best wishes and congratulated them for qualifying through local-level competitions to reach the national platform, stating that their achievement reflects the immense potential of the youth of Jammu and Kashmir.
Addressing the gathering, Shri Manoj Sinha said that youth is defined not by age but by mindset, courage, curiosity, and the ability to bring about positive change. He expressed complete faith in the potential and resolve of young people to contribute to the vision of a developed India.
Recalling the teachings of Swami Vivekananda on the occasion of his birth anniversary, commemorated annually through the National Youth Festival, the Lieutenant Governor urged the youth to make their dreams the central purpose of their lives and to view every challenge as an opportunity to learn discipline and patience.
He emphasized that true leadership lies in creating opportunities for others and contributing to societal and national progress. The Lieutenant Governor advised the youth to focus on character building, develop future-ready capabilities, and embrace lifelong learning.
“Your greatest responsibility is towards society and the nation. Be bold, fearless, and think beyond boundaries. Your courage, discipline, clarity, and determination, combined with experience, will guide you on the path towards Viksit Bharat,” he said.
The National Youth Festival, observed annually on January 12 to mark the birth anniversary of Swami Vivekananda, was restructured in 2025 as the Viksit Bharat Young Leaders’ Dialogue to align with the vision of Viksit Bharat @2047.
Ms Yasha Mudgal, Commissioner/Secretary, Youth Services and Sports; Ms Anuradha Gupta, Director General, Youth Services and Sports; senior officials, participating youth, and officials accompanying the contingent were present on the occasion.
