Jammu, August 3: Lieutenant Governor Shri Manoj Sinha today addressed the valedictory session of the Viksit Bharat–Yuva Connect Programme at the University of Jammu, underlining the vital role of youth in shaping India’s future and driving the Union Territory’s development.
The programme, aligned with the national vision of Viksit Bharat @2047, is implemented through the My Bharat platform to strengthen youth engagement, promote participatory dialogue, and bridge the gap between young citizens and policymakers.
In his keynote address, the Lieutenant Governor described the youth as the architects of a new India, emphasizing their responsibility to drive social transformation and economic progress.
> “The 21st century is India’s century—this is written in stone,” LG Sinha said. “India is advancing towards reclaiming its place as a global leader, and the young generation will be the biggest contributor to this historic journey.”
Calling for a deep sense of purpose and national commitment, the LG said the objective of the programme is to enable youth to become informed, action-oriented citizens who can propel Jammu and Kashmir’s growth trajectory.
> “The human mind is the greatest miracle and the most powerful force in the universe. Our youth must channel this strength to realise the vision of a developed India,” he said.
Encouraging students to foster innovation while remaining conscious of their societal responsibilities, LG Sinha added:
> “You have to chart the path to the future. Along with embracing modern inventions, you must preserve the thirst to explore new dimensions of consciousness. To build Viksit Bharat, your endeavours must be wholehearted.”
He urged young people to align their ambitions with national goals, to understand the needs of society, and to be prepared for sacrifices in service of the country.
The Lieutenant Governor also praised the University of Jammu for its initiatives under the Viksit Bharat–Yuva Connect framework, crediting the institution with enabling students to unlock their full potential. He called upon educational institutions to adopt a global vision in their pedagogy to remain in step with a rapidly transforming world.
> “Our immediate objective should be to make India the world’s third-largest economy,” he said.
During the event, the Lieutenant Governor felicitated winners of various competitions and initiatives held in the run-up to the programme’s finale. He also administered the Viksit Bharat Shapath (Pledge) to participants, reaffirming their commitment to the nation’s progress.
Vice Chancellor Prof. Umesh Rai presented a comprehensive report on the activities organised by the University as part of the programme.
The ceremony was attended by senior government officials, heads of departments, faculty members, and a large number of students.