Face2News/Chandigarh
The 17th Tribal Youth Exchange Programme commenced today at Panjab University, Chandigarh, marking the beginning of a week-long celebration of unity, culture, and youth empowerment. The event was inaugurated by Shri H. Rajesh Prasad, IAS, Chief Secretary, Chandigarh Administration, under the MY Bharat initiative of the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, Government of India, in collaboration with the Ministry of Home Affairs and the Department of Youth Welfare, Panjab University.
Addressing the gathering, Shri H. Rajesh Prasad highlighted that the programme embodies the vision of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi to prepare a dynamic, confident, and empowered youth generation for a Viksit Bharat @2047. He said that the coming decades belong to the youth, whose collective determination and innovation will drive India’s growth on both national and global fronts.
The Chief Secretary underlined that such exchange programmes play a pivotal role in bridging the gap between rural and urban opportunities, offering tribal youth exposure to educational and cultural experiences that enhance their personal and professional development. “Education is the first step toward empowerment. Believe in yourself, take pride in your identity, and strive to make a difference,” he told the participants.
Emphasizing the importance of inclusive growth, Shri Prasad drew inspiration from the vision of Dr. B. R. Ambedkar, stating that every section of society must move forward together for true national progress. He urged the youth to uphold the spirit of ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’—the world is one family, fostering unity, compassion, and shared growth.
This year, the programme has brought together 200 tribal youth from Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, and Odisha, along with 20 officials from CRPF, ITBP, and BSF. Over the week, participants will take part in workshops, cultural events, and educational visits on themes such as Nasha Mukt Bharat, Aatmanirbhar Bharat, and Viksit Bharat @2047.
The event aims to promote national integration, leadership qualities, and cultural understanding by exposing tribal youth to Chandigarh’s educational and technological environment.
The inaugural ceremony was graced by Ms. Prerna Puri, IAS, Secretary Sports, Chandigarh Administration, and Prof. (Dr.) Renu Vig, Vice-Chancellor, Panjab University, as special guests. Shri Sorabh Kumar Arora, PCS, Director Sports, Chandigarh Administration; Shri Paramjit Singh, State Director, MY Bharat Punjab & Chandigarh; Shri Vinay Kumar, District Youth Officer, Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports, Government of India; and Dr. Sukhjinder Rishi, Director, Department of Youth Welfare, Panjab University, were also present on the occasion.