Mumbai/Pune – On September 19, 2024, the Union Ministry for Youth Affairs and Sports launched the ‘Viksit Bharat Ambassador – Yuva Connect’ initiative at SP College, Pune, Maharashtra. The event saw Union Minister for Labour and Employment, Youth Affairs, and Sports, Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, and Union Minister of State for Youth Affairs, Ms. Raksha Khadse, addressing the importance of youth involvement in India’s development.

Dr. Mandaviya emphasized that achieving Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of making India a developed nation by 2047 requires meticulous planning and the active participation of the youth. He highlighted the strong legacy of SP College, noting that many of its alumni have made significant contributions across various fields. The initiative aims to engage students from colleges across Maharashtra, guiding them on their role in realizing the ‘Viksit Bharat’ goal.

Ms. Khadse encouraged students to register on the My Bharat Portal, emphasizing its role in empowering youth to contribute to the nation’s development. She expressed confidence that even small actions by students could collectively drive the country towards its development goals.

Olympic bronze medalist Swapnil Kusale also addressed the gathering, sharing his journey and urging athletes to take advantage of the Union Ministry’s support schemes designed to encourage and assist sports players.

The program also included a tree planting ceremony on the college premises under the ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ initiative, reinforcing the commitment to environmental sustainability.

The launch event was attended by various dignitaries, including Joint Secretary of the Union Ministry of Youth Affairs, Shri Nitish Mishra, and Shikshan Prasarak Mandali President, Shri S.K. Jain. The ‘Viksit Bharat Ambassador – Yuva Connect’ initiative marks the beginning of a series of interactions aimed at inspiring and mobilizing youth for national development.