THE JHARKHAND STORY NETWORK
Ranchi, January 12: Himachal Pradesh Governor Shiv Pratap Shukla on Monday said that with nearly 70 per cent of India’s population comprising young people, the country can emerge as the world’s third-largest economy if its youth are properly guided and nurtured.
Addressing a massive gathering at Youth Conclave-2026, organised by Jan Shikshan Sansthan, Vikas Bharti Bishunpur, at its Ranchi office premises to mark Swami Vivekananda Jayanti and National Youth Day, the Governor emphasised the decisive role of youth in nation-building.
Governor Recalls Journey of Vikas Bharti
Recalling his association with Dr Ashok Bhagat, Secretary of Vikas Bharti Bishunpur, during their student days, Governor Shukla praised his perseverance in establishing the organisation in the remote and backward region of Bishunpur during the era of undivided Bihar.
He said that Vikas Bharti Bishunpur has grown beyond an organisation and has become a movement that is playing a leading role in the development of Jharkhand.
Event Begins with Tribute to Swami Vivekananda
Earlier in the day, the programme began with the worship and garlanding of Swami Vivekananda’s statue by Swami Bhaveshanand Ji, Secretary of the Ramakrishna Mission.
Dr Ashok Bhagat addressed the gathering on Swami Vivekananda’s life struggles and his visionary thoughts on youth empowerment and social transformation.
Swami Bhaveshanand Ji said that if today’s youth follow Swami Vivekananda’s ideals, India is destined to become the most powerful nation in the world, given its democratic strength, population and youthful energy.
Union Minister, Sportspersons Inspire Youth
Union Minister of State for Defence Sanjay Seth spoke on the contribution of youth to India’s growth and highlighted the achievements of Indian soldiers and women naval officers. He also outlined various government initiatives aimed at empowering young citizens.
Former Indian women’s hockey team captain Asunta Lakra urged young people not to be disheartened by hardships, sharing her own journey from a remote region to leading the nation in sports.
Nisha Oraon, Assistant Commissioner of Income Tax, emphasised the need to balance tradition and values with modern thinking to achieve personal and national progress.
Cultural Performances and Youth Participation
The second phase of the programme, Yuva Sangam 2026, featured performances by 40 cultural troupes from Ranchi district, showcasing traditional dances and folk songs.
In the cultural competition, Ankita Group secured first position, Preeti Group second and Monica Group third.
Jerseys and medals were also distributed to 12 football teams. Aarti Kujur of Digital Junior Football Club, Silli, won first place, followed by Priyanka Munda of Dynamic Football Club and Alka Oraon of Rani Lakshmibai Football Club.
Large Gathering of Youth and Dignitaries
The event was attended by around 2,500 youths and hundreds of prominent citizens. Other dignitaries present included the First Lady of Himachal Pradesh Dr Shyama Prasad Mukherjee, former Ranchi University Vice-Chancellor Dr Satyanarayan Munda, Shri Ram Vinay Sharma, and Vikas Bharti, Vice-President, Ranjana Chaudhary.
The programme concluded with a vote of thanks proposed by Dr Ajay Singh, President of Vikas Bharti Bishunpur.
