Event Details

EVENT REPORT

RESOURCE PERSON(S): N/A

BRIEF DESCRIPTION / REPORT WITH GEO-TAGGED PHOTOGRAPHS OR SCREENSHOTS

The Viksit Bharat Young Leaders Dialogue (VBYLD) 2026 was a national-level initiative aimed at engaging young leaders from across India in meaningful discussions on innovation, governance, entrepreneurship, and nation-building. The programme was conducted as part of the National Youth Festival with the objective of preparing youth to contribute actively toward the vision of Viksit Bharat @2047. Three students from Sikkim Manipal Institute of Technology (SMIT) were selected as national finalists and participated in this prestigious event.

DAY 1 – 9^th January 2026

The first day of the event began with participant registration and orientation at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi. The day officially commenced with the opening ceremony, where senior officials and mentors addressed the participants regarding the goals and significance of the VBYLD initiative. The session emphasized the role of youth in policy-making and national development.

Following the inauguration, participants presented their ideas before expert jury panels under different thematic tracks. Students from SMIT presented proposals related to innovation and startup development. The presentations were evaluated by a distinguished panel consisting of academicians, scientists, and industry leaders. The feedback provided by the jury helped participants refine their ideas and understand real-world implementation challenges.

The day also included networking sessions with national-level mentors and youth leaders. Participants had the opportunity to interact with Mr. Yatin Bhaskar Duggal, National Head of the Viksit Bharat Leadership Council, whose insights on leadership and youth engagement added significant value to the overall learning experience. Day 1 concluded with a sense of excitement and responsibility for the sessions ahead.

DAY 2 – 10^th January 2026

The second day focused on policy dialogues, thematic discussions, and expert interactions. Participants attended multiple sessions on topics such as entrepreneurship, innovation, sustainable development, and workforce readiness. The presence of eminent dignitaries such as Shri Ajit Doval Ji, Hon'ble National Security Advisor of India, and Smt. Raksha Nikhil Khadse Ji, Hon'ble Minister of State for Youth Affairs and Sports, added immense significance to the proceedings.

A key highlight of the day was the informal interaction and dinner session with Shri Sukanta Majumdar Ji, Hon'ble Minister of State for Education, Government of India. This engagement provided participants with an opportunity to discuss education, leadership, and youth responsibility in an open and encouraging environment.

The day also included a visit to the Prime Ministers' Museum and Library, which offered valuable insights into India's political journey and leadership legacy. Overall, Day 2 was highly informative and helped participants connect their ideas with national priorities.

DAY 3 – 11^th January 2026

The third day was dedicated to advanced thematic sessions and interactions with experts from science, technology, and governance. Participants engaged in discussions related to India's technological progress, startup ecosystems, and strategic development goals.

One of the major highlights was attending sessions featuring Dr. Pawan Goenka, Chairman of IN-SPACe, along with astronauts associated with ISRO's Gaganyaan Mission. These interactions inspired participants to think beyond conventional boundaries and align their aspirations with India's space and technology missions.

Day 3 played a crucial role in deepening participants' understanding of innovation-driven growth and reinforced the importance of collaboration, research, and leadership in achieving national development objectives.

DAY 4 – 12^th January 2026

The fourth and final day marked the grand conclusion of VBYLD 2026. The highlight of the day was the Hon'ble Prime Minister's interaction, during which participants witnessed a direct engagement focused on youth leadership and India's roadmap towards becoming a developed nation by 2047.

The day also included final expert sessions and motivational addresses from senior leaders in governance and technology. The event concluded with the valedictory ceremony, which celebrated the participation and contributions of young leaders from across the country. Certificates were distributed, and participants were encouraged to carry forward the learnings from the programme into their academic and professional journeys.

The Viksit Bharat Young Leaders Dialogue 2026 proved to be a highly enriching and transformative experience for the student representatives of Sikkim Manipal Institute of Technology. The programme enhanced leadership abilities, critical thinking, and awareness of India's developmental priorities. Interactions with national leaders, policymakers, and experts provided valuable exposure and motivation to contribute meaningfully toward the vision of Viksit Bharat @2047.

Representing the institution at such a prestigious national platform was a matter of immense pride, and the knowledge gained from this event will continue to guide the participants in their future endeavours.

LIST OF PARTICIPANTS: