Dignitaries with others during State-Level Viksit Bharat Youth Parliament 2026 on March 27.
Our Correspondent
Kigwema | March 27
The State-Level Viksit Bharat Youth Parliament 2026 under the Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports, Government of India, was held at Japfu Christian College, Kigwema on March 27. The event brought together young participants from across Nagaland for democratic deliberations and parliamentary practice, basing on “Union Budget 2026 – Strengthening the Indian Youth Path Towards Viksit Bharat 2047.”
Delivering the keynote address, Dr Salam Dhanachandra Singh, State Director of My Bharat under the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, Government of India, said the Youth Parliament is not merely a debate but a structured platform aimed at grooming leadership among youth.
He stated that the initiative, developed over the past few years, seeks to channel young minds towards policy-oriented thinking and nation-building.
Highlighting the vision of “Viksit Bharat 2047,” Dr. Singh said the programme aligns with India’s goal of becoming a developed nation by the centenary of its independence.
He noted that the initiative is being conducted across 750 districts in the country, with top performers advancing to the national level in New Delhi, where they will speak at the Central Hall of Parliament.
He further referred to youth engagement initiatives such as the Viksit Bharat Young Dialogue, which witnessed participation from over 10 lakh youth nationwide, with inputs contributing to national policymaking, including the Union Budget.
Deenabandhu Panda, Additional Director, School Education Department, Government of Nagaland, emphasized the need to move beyond conventional career paths.
He urged students to focus on skill development alongside academic learning, stating that employability today depends on adaptability, innovation, and practical skills rather than reliance on government jobs.
Panda also highlighted challenges such as India’s dependence on fossil fuels and stressed the need for innovation and sustainable alternatives as the country moves towards becoming a developed nation. He encouraged Naga youth to explore opportunities beyond the state and abroad, and to overcome challenges with confidence.
He further underscored the strategic importance of the Northeast as a gateway to Southeast Asia and called on youth to explore opportunities in entrepreneurship, business, and regional connectivity.
Programme Supervisor of My Bharat Nagaland, Rokovikho Chale, informed that participants from Dimapur, Mon, Peren, Wokha, Kohima, Tuensang, Zunheboto, Mokokchung, Phek, Kiphire, and Tseminyu districts took part in the event.
Other dignitaries present included Dr Visakhonu Hibo, Principal of Japfu Christian College, and Ruokuovituo Zatsu, State Nodal Officer, NSS, Government of Nagaland.
The programme featured keynote sessions, youth parliamentary deliberations, and prize distribution. It aimed to promote leadership, critical thinking, and active participation in democratic processes among the youth.
