SRINAGAR, Jul 28: The Viksit Bharat Young Leaders Dialogue (VBYLD) 2026 – Young Professionals Roundtable was organised by MY Bharat Srinagar under the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, Government of India, in collaboration with the Nations Development Association (NDA) at the SCERT Auditorium, Bemani, Srinagar. The event, held on the theme “Youth in Democracy and Government for Viksit Bharat,” witnessed the participation of nearly 300 youth, young professionals, MY Bharat and NSS volunteers, educators and youth leaders from across Jammu & Kashmir.
The programme began with registration, networking, the singing of Vande Mataram, the VBYLD theme song and the ceremonial lighting of the lamp. Welcoming the participants, Sushil Singh Charak, Chief Functionary of the Nations Development Association, described India’s young population as its greatest strength and urged youth to actively participate in democratic institutions, public leadership and community development. He said platforms such as VBYLD prepare young people to become responsible nation-builders.
A presentation on the vision and objectives of Viksit Bharat Young Leaders Dialogue 2026 was delivered by Rawhaan Buhroo Rafiq, who highlighted the role of youth-led participation in achieving the vision of a developed India by 2047. The programme also featured cultural performances showcasing the talent and diversity of young participants.
Addressing the gathering, Prof. (Dr.) Mohammad Mobin, Vice Chancellor of Cluster University Srinagar, stressed that universities should become centres of leadership, innovation and character-building. Prof. (Dr.) K. S. Chandrasekar, Vice Chancellor of Cluster University Jammu, encouraged students to participate actively in governance and policymaking with integrity and professionalism.
Speaking on the occasion, MLA Shagun Parihar called upon young citizens to become responsible leaders capable of bringing positive change, while MLA Devyani Singh Rana encouraged participants to embrace ethical leadership and dedication in contributing towards the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047.
Padma Shri Javed Ahmad Tak, Chairman of Humanity Welfare Organisation Helpline, shared his inspiring life journey and urged the youth to transform challenges into opportunities through perseverance and self-confidence while dedicating themselves to the service of humanity. Anissa Nabi, JKAS, Deputy Director, Urban Local Bodies, HUDD and Fit India Ambassador, emphasised civic responsibility, good governance and healthy living.
Other speakers included Dr. Sandeep Singh, President of Desh Bhagat University and DBU America, who highlighted the importance of quality education, innovation and entrepreneurship, and Prof. (Dr.) Faisal Mushtaq Kichloo, NSS Coordinator, Cluster University Srinagar, who encouraged students to engage in volunteerism and nation-building through NSS and similar platforms.
The event concluded with an interactive question-and-answer session, allowing participants to engage with experts on democracy, governance, innovation and public policy. Participation certificates were distributed to delegates, while dignitaries were felicitated for their contributions to education, youth empowerment and public service.
The vote of thanks was delivered by Gopal Namdeo, District Youth Officer, MY Bharat Srinagar, who acknowledged the support of the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, partner organisations, volunteers and participants. The programme concluded with the National Anthem and a group photograph, reaffirming the collective commitment towards strengthening democracy and achieving the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047.