State-Level Viksit Bharat Yuva Connect Program 2025, organized by the Department of Youth Resources and Sports in collaboration with NSS and NYKS, aided by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, was held on August 12 at the Assembly Secretariat, Kohima.
Special Guest, Anthony Ngullie NCS, Commissioner and Secretary for Youth Resources and Sports, in his speech, highlighted that the term “Viksit Bharat” means “Developed India”. It represents the ambitious national goal of transforming India into a fully developed nation by the year 2047, when we celebrate 100 years of independence. He stated, “This is not just a government mission—it is our collective dream.”
“And who better to drive this transformation than the youth of India?” he questioned.
He explained that the “Viksit Bharat Yuva Connect” is more than a program—it’s a platform for engagement, empowerment, and action. Spearheaded by the Government of India, it brings young minds and national policymakers together, encouraging dialogue and participation in the journey toward nation-building.
It has involved inspirational interactions with students and youth across the country, organized competitions like debates, quizzes, and essay writing on topics related to development and provided opportunities to directly share ideas on innovation, technology, sustainability, and social reform.
“This initiative gives us a chance to not just dream about the India of 2047 but to create it ourselves,” he said.
He informed about the role of youth in Viksit Bharat. He said with over 65% of India’s population under the age of 35, India is the world’s largest youth power which must be harnessed for innovation-in technology, agriculture, education, and space; entrepreneurship and job creation; sustainability and climate action; and inclusive development where no citizen is left behind.
But for this, he mentioned, “We must take responsibility. Viksit Bharat will not be built by chance—it will be built by vision, values, and action.” He added, “Our ideas matter, and our actions matter even more.”
He highlighted that the youth must become change-makers, not just dreamers. “We must be the builders of tomorrow, not just the inheritors today.”
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He concluded by saying, “Friends, the dream of Viksit Bharat @2047 is a call to all of us. Through the Viksit Bharat Yuva Connect, we are reminded that the power to transform this country lies within us. Let us rise to this challenge—with energy, with unity, and with purpose. Let’s connect. Let’s contribute. Let’s create a Developed India.”
Representative of NYKS also highlighted the context settings and My Bharat Portal. He encouraged all students to register on the “My Bharat” portal. The My Bharat portal is joined by young citizens between the ages of 15 and 29 and is an excellent opportunity to progress their profession and cultivate a positive personality. They learn about chances for occupational skill development, youth leadership, and community participation here.
“Participate in activities of national importance and make a significant contribution to the country’s growth,” he said.
He also informed that the winners will go forward to the national level if selected.
The program was followed by Debate and Youth Parliament competitions.
Director of Youth Resources and Sports, Khethosituo Sekhose informed that the competition was participated in by 14 colleges. Out of 26, 14 were selected from the district level. He congratulated all the students present, stating that they are all winners as they represent their district today.
Later, at the valedictory program young entrepreneur, Thejasevi Putsure shared his experience and gave a presentation on “Showcase of Viksit Bharat: Premium Naga Organic” toward a Viksit Bharat. He talked about how he became a local entrepreneur and how it took over 8 years for him to supply local organic pineapple to over 7 cities, encouraging students to work hard and with dedication, as anything is possible.
Secretary-In-Charge, Nagaland Legislative Assembly, Khruohituonuo Rio, the special guest for the valedictory program, reminded the students that”Hard work and perseverance can change our life.”
She stated, “This significant initiative, undertaken under the aegis of the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports and organized at the state level by the Department of Youth Resources and Sports, is a testament to the central role the youth must play in shaping the future of our country. The Viksit Bharat Yuva Connect Programme is not just another event on the calendar—it is a nation-building movement.”
She added that each of them present there was a vital part of it.
She informed that this program has been thoughtfully implemented at the District level in a phased manner, with three impactful pre-event activities: The Youth Parliament ; a spirited debate competition; and ‘My Bharat Portal’ registration drive, which were all successfully conducted across 26 institutions in 14 districts of Nagaland engaging young minds and encouraging them to reflect, speak, and act on issues that affect our communities and our nation.
The participants selected from these events have now converged here at the state level, symbolizing the voice of the youth of Nagaland.
She saluted Prime Minister, Narendra Modi for his vision for a Viksit Bharat (an Advanced India by 2047) which continues to inspire us all and serves as a powerful call to action for every young Indian.
“At its core, this initiative aims to foster leadership, civic engagement, and awareness among youth, while also providing a platform to engage in meaningful dialogue and experience democratic processes first-hand, she said.
“As someone from the Legislative Assembly Secretariat, I must stress how crucial such exposure is because it is in understanding democracy that we truly learn to strengthen it,” she added.
She further said that their active participation in this program shows that the youth of Nagaland are not only willing but also ready to lead.“The ideas you have expressed, the debates you have engaged in, and the passion you’ve shown are clear indicators that our future is in good hands,” she said.
She also thanked the Department of Youth Resources and Sports and all the district-level coordinators and institutions for their tireless efforts in making this program a success. She extended gratitude to the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports for initiating such a visionary and inclusive program across the nation.
Winners of Debate Competitions:
1st (Motion):Temnyei M. Konyak (Mon)
2nd (Motion) Illihima H. Yepthomi (Zunheboto)
1st (Against):Sashikumzuk (Mokokchung)
2nd (Against): Kozo Venuh (Phek)
Winners of State Youth Parliament Competition:
1st:Neiketuonuo Thapo (Chumukedima District)
2nd:Limugha G. (Niuland)
3rd:Sentirenla Va Pienyii (Dimapur)
Certificates and stipends were given to all winners, and participants received certificates.
