Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Wednesday delivered a compelling address at the Islamic University of Science and Technology (IUST), Awantipora, during the ‘Viksit Bharat Yuva Connect’ program—an ambitious initiative launched by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports to empower India’s youth as key contributors to national development.
Calling the program a transformative platform, the Lieutenant Governor praised its intent to bridge the communication gap between young citizens and policymakers. He stated that Viksit Bharat Yuva Connect is not merely an event but a structured movement to inspire, engage, enable, and encourage the youth to actively participate in India’s journey towards becoming a developed nation by 2047.
“The future of India lies in the hands of its youth. Through this program, young minds can articulate their ideas, engage in meaningful policy dialogues, and become active stakeholders in shaping the nation,” the LG remarked, referencing the Prime Minister’s four-point youth vision: Engage, Encourage, Enable, and Inspire.
Highlighting the importance of the MY Bharat platform, LG Sinha emphasized its role in fostering participatory governance and leadership development. He urged Kashmiri youth to embrace the Panch Pran (Five Pledges) outlined by the Prime Minister and move forward with a ‘Nation-First’ resolve.
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“Youth will script the future of J&K—one filled with peace, prosperity, and innovation. Despite challenges, the youth of our region are equipped to drive a socio-economic revolution, and the government is committed to providing them with resources and opportunities to realize their potential,” he said.
Underscoring the importance of higher education in nation-building, the LG congratulated IUST for implementing progressive reforms that have significantly contributed to the transformation of J&K’s academic ecosystem. He suggested that the university take the next big step by establishing a semiconductor lab to boost research and innovation.
“We can only achieve the goal of Viksit Bharat when Jammu and Kashmir, our districts, and our universities are equally developed,” he noted, adding that IUST is on the right path and must continue its commitment to excellence.
Paying rich tributes to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, LG Sinha called upon students to embody Patel’s ideals and contribute to building an inclusive, unified India. A video tribute titled Sardar @150 was also screened, marking the legacy of the Iron Man of India.
The Lieutenant Governor also reiterated his administration’s resolve to eliminate drug abuse from educational institutions. “No university can contribute to nation-building unless it is drug-free,” he asserted. He proposed a multi-pronged strategy that includes mandatory anti-drug oaths at admission, creation of student-led ‘Say No to Drugs’ committees, early warning systems, and the integration of drug awareness content into the curriculum.
The LG also called for setting up confidential reporting mechanisms and promoting helpline services like Tele-Manas to assist students in need of psychological support or de-addiction counselling.
On the occasion, winners of pre-event competitions such as the Viksit Bharat Youth Parliament and Debate Contests were felicitated by the Lieutenant Governor. He extended his best wishes for the upcoming nationwide launch of the program by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on August 12, where over 1,300 universities across India will simultaneously connect with the PM.
The event also featured a special presentation by IUST Vice Chancellor Prof. Shakil Ahmad Romshoo on how the university’s Institutional Development Plan (IDP) aligns with the national vision of Viksit Bharat@2047. The IDP covers reforms in administration, academics, research, and community outreach.
An interactive ‘Yuva Samvad’ session was also held, giving students a platform to express their views on civic responsibility, national development, and current issues.
The event was attended by senior officials including Shri Shantmanu (Additional Chief Secretary, Higher Education Department), Shri Basharat Qayoom (Deputy Commissioner Pulwama), Prof. A. H. Moon (Dean Academic Affairs), Prof. Abdul Wahid (Registrar IUST), faculty members, heads of departments, and a large number of students.
