Varanasi: Union minister Mansukh Mandaviya on Saturday underscored the vital role of young people in building a developed India, urging them to channel their energy, creativity and social media presence towards the national interest.Emphasising discipline, the spirit of “Nation First”, creativity and respect for others as key values for Gen Z, he called on young people to reflect these principles in their behaviour and actions. He also stressed that social media should not be used merely to gain popularity but to spread positive messages and contribute to nation-building.Addressing the MY Bharat Youth Conference at Swatantrata Bhawan in Varanasi, Mandaviya called on youth to become active participants in the drug-free India campaign and make national service a part of their life.The conference, organised by Mera Yuva Bharat under the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, was held on the theme “Youth for Viksit Bharat.” Uttar Pradesh sports minister Girish Chandra Yadav, cricketer Dhruv Jurel, film director Vishal Chaturvedi and several other prominent personalities attended the event.Youth leaders, sportspersons, content creators and achievers from various fields were honoured during the programme.The Union minister appreciated the use of street plays, folk arts and other creative platforms to raise awareness about drug de-addiction. He said a drug-free India is essential for achieving the goal of a developed nation and encouraged youth to join the MY Bharat campaign to spread awareness about the harmful effects of substance abuse.Mandaviya also praised achievers from cricket, cinema, sports and other fields, including Asian Games players, saying their hard work and accomplishments inspire the younger generation.Content creators present at the conference were encouraged to develop meaningful content on social issues, youth development, drug de-addiction and nation-building. Speakers said social media can play an important role in spreading awareness, responsibility and positive change in society.Mandaviya said Prime Minister Narendra Modi has set the goal of making India a developed nation by 2047. To achieve this, he said, all 140 crore citizens must move forward with collective resolve. He added that it is necessary to give up the colonial mindset, take pride in India’s heritage and perform one’s duties with sincerity.The conference focused on youth leadership, sports and fitness, entrepreneurship, innovation, employment generation, positive social impact through digital platforms, culture and heritage, and community participation. Cultural performances showcased India’s artistic and cultural diversity.The programme aimed to encourage youth talent, inspire young people toward leadership and social responsibility, and ensure their active participation in building a developed India.BoxFrom Army dream To India cap, Jurel urges youth to aim highVaranasi: Indian wicketkeeper-batsman Dhruv Jurel urged youngsters to dream big and work tirelessly to turn those dreams into reality. Recalling his journey, Jurel said his grandfather was a farmer and his father a Kargil war veteran. Growing up in a family closely associated with the armed forces, he too aspired to join the Indian Army during his childhood.Jurel said that, like most middle-class families, his parents hoped he would secure a good government job and settle down in life. His family had similar expectations, but his heart was set on cricket. Passionate about the sport from a young age, he repeatedly sought his parents’ permission to pursue cricket as a career.He was addressing the MY Bharat Youth Conference at Swatantrata Bhawan in Varanasi.Motivating young people, Jurel said, “Keep believing in yourself. Dream big and put all your strength into achieving those dreams. At the same time, always remain humble and stay connected to your roots.”He added that self-belief, hard work and humility are essential for success. His message to youth was to stay committed to their goals and never forget their values even after achieving success.
