Yogi Adityanath Engages Youth at 17th Tribal Youth Exchange Program

Lucknow served as the backdrop for the 17th Tribal Youth Exchange Program, which commenced on September 25, 2023, and will conclude on October 1, 2023. During the week-long event, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath interacted with approximately 200 young participants from states including Madhya Pradesh, Jharkhand, Maharashtra, Chhattisgarh, and Odisha. The program aims to foster cultural exchange and strengthen national unity among the youth.

In his welcoming remarks, CM Yogi highlighted the significance of the program as part of Prime Minister Narendra Modi‘s vision for a developed India, known as “Viksit India.” He called on the youth to dedicate themselves to the cause of national integrity, emphasizing the importance of participating in initiatives that promote cultural understanding.

The Chief Minister also extended his best wishes to the attendees on the occasion of Sharadiya Navratri and Vijayadashami. He underscored the role of the Tribal Youth Exchange Program in advancing the Prime Minister’s “Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat” campaign, which aims to unite diverse cultures within India.

Fostering Unity Through Cultural Exchange

CM Yogi emphasized that while India is characterized by various dialects and cultures, its essence remains unified. He stated, “The sentiment that ‘Mother Earth is our mother, and we are her children’ lives in the heart of every Indian.” This year is particularly significant, marking the 150th birth anniversary of Birsa Munda, a prominent tribal leader, alongside the celebrations for the Amrit Mahotsav of the Indian Constitution.

The Chief Minister reiterated that the aspirations of 1.4 billion citizens can only be fulfilled when every individual embraces development as a personal mission. “From Kandla to Kalahandi, Singhbhum to Gadchiroli, when these regions progress, India will progress,” he remarked.

He elaborated on the five guiding principles, or Panch Pran, proposed by Prime Minister Modi. The first principle stresses the importance of honoring India’s historical figures and cultural heritage. The second calls for shedding a mindset of inferiority. CM Yogi urged the youth to adopt a spirit of determination, stating, “Instead of thinking ‘we cannot do this,’ we must embrace ‘Yes, we can, and we will.’”

The third principle highlights the need for respect towards the armed forces and those who protect the nation. The fourth focuses on social unity, emphasizing that despite differences, the identity of being Indian prevails. Finally, the fifth principle calls upon every citizen to fulfill their civic duties with integrity, framing this responsibility as essential to national progress.

Encouraging Future Leaders

Encouraging the participants to observe development firsthand, CM Yogi urged them to visit the Vidhan Sabha and experience the Lucknow Metro. He reflected on the historical significance of tribal communities, recalling their support during Lord Ram’s exile. To further inspire the youth, he announced plans for a tour of Ayodhya, highlighting its transformation over the past decade.

“The Ayodhya you see today was not the same 8–10 years ago,” he noted, pointing out the improvements in infrastructure and facilities. He urged the participants to draw comparisons between Ayodhya and Lucknow, encouraging a dialogue about development models.

The Tribal Youth Exchange Program not only serves as a platform for cultural exchange but also aims to cultivate a sense of responsibility among young leaders. By participating in such initiatives, the youth are encouraged to engage actively in the progress of their communities and the nation as a whole.