Yogi Adityanath Engages Youth at 17th Tribal Exchange Program

Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath of Uttar Pradesh engaged with young representatives from five Indian states at the 17th Tribal Youth Exchange Program in Lucknow on October 1, 2023. The program, which began on September 25, has brought together around 200 youths from Madhya Pradesh, Jharkhand, Maharashtra, Chhattisgarh, and Odisha to foster cultural exchange and unity among diverse communities.

During the opening ceremony, Adityanath welcomed the participants and urged them to commit themselves to the ideals of national unity and integrity. He extended greetings for the festival of Sharadiya Navratri and Vijayadashami, emphasizing the importance of cultural heritage in shaping a unified nation.

Promoting National Unity through Culture

The Chief Minister highlighted the significance of the program as part of Prime Minister Narendra Modi‘s vision for a developed India. He described it as an integral component of the “Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat” initiative, which aims to promote cultural sharing and mutual respect among India’s diverse populations. Adityanath stated, “Such programs are not just about cultural exchange; they are opportunities to strengthen the spirit of unity in diversity.”

Speaking on the occasion, Adityanath also invoked the legacy of Birsa Munda, whose 150th birth anniversary coincides with the celebration of the Indian Constitution’s Amrit Mahotsav. He remarked that Munda’s spirit, which rekindled national pride during colonial times, continues to inspire Indians today.

“The sentiment that ‘Mother Earth is our mother, and we are her children’ lives in the heart of every Indian. It is deeply rooted in our culture and traditions,” he said, reflecting on India’s shared identity despite regional differences.

Embracing Development as a National Responsibility

The Chief Minister urged the youth to adopt the Panch Pran, or five guiding principles, laid out by Prime Minister Modi, which focus on national pride, shedding a colonial mindset, respecting security forces, promoting social unity, and fulfilling civic duties. He stressed that these principles are vital for building a developed nation.

Adityanath encouraged the youths to witness firsthand the changes in Ayodhya and to compare its transformation over the past decade with that of Lucknow. He invited them to explore the legislative assembly and experience modern infrastructure like the Lucknow Metro. “The Ayodhya you see today was not the same 8–10 years ago,” he noted, highlighting the extensive development in the area.

He concluded by directing the Youth Welfare Department to organize a tour of Ayodhya for the participants, emphasizing that the exchange of ideas and experiences can inspire further progress across the nation.

By promoting unity and cultural exchange, the Tribal Youth Exchange Program aims to empower the next generation to take an active role in shaping India’s future.