On October 31, 2025, the Indian Army, along with the Centre for Land Warfare Studies (CLAWS), hosted the Young Leaders Forum (YLF) at the Manekshaw Centre in New Delhi. This event was a lead-up to the Chanakya Defence Dialogue (CDD) scheduled for late November, focusing on the theme “Reform to Transform: Sashakt, Surakshit aur Viksit Bharat.”
Celebrated on National Unity Day, the forum emphasized the idea of “Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat.” It highlighted the importance of youth as both drivers and beneficiaries of transformation in India. The event gathered young leaders from various backgrounds, including the military, academia, and entrepreneurship. Notably, it also connected with students across the country through a hybrid format, allowing participation from Army training institutions and universities.
The forum featured prominent speakers such as Kiren Rijiju, the Minister of Parliamentary Affairs, General Upendra Dwivedi, the Chief of Army Staff, and BJP MP Tejasvi Surya. Rijiju emphasized the central role of youth and the Armed Forces in achieving the Prime Minister’s vision of a developed India. He pointed out that India’s economic growth, surpassing 7%, signifies the nation’s renewed confidence. He encouraged the youth to embody fitness, discipline, and patriotism, mirroring the commitment of the Armed Forces.
General Dwivedi echoed these thoughts, discussing the power of India’s youthful population, with about 65% under 35. He noted this demographic as a source of innovation and energy, urging that it be harnessed with purpose. He introduced initiatives like the Army Cells in IITs and the Indian Army Internship Programme to engage youth effectively. The General called for civic responsibility and pride in the journey toward a self-reliant India.
In his address, Tejasvi Surya spoke about the vital role of youth in shaping India’s future. He drew inspiration from India’s history, referencing heroic figures and emphasizing that the nation stands ready to transition from challenges to opportunities. The ongoing advancements in technology and governance, including the success of the start-up ecosystem, serve as evidence of this potential.
The Young Leaders Forum aimed to bridge the gap between today’s strategic leaders and tomorrow’s visionaries, reinforcing the Army’s commitment to a comprehensive approach to national security. The discussions at the forum will guide the upcoming Chanakya Defence Dialogue, further embedding the youth’s critical role in India’s progress.
The importance of engaging the youth in national dialogue cannot be overstated. As highlighted by recent surveys, platforms like this resonate with young Indians eager to contribute to their country’s future. According to a 2022 report by the Ministry of Youth Affairs, 75% of the youth in India feel a strong sense of responsibility towards national development.
In conclusion, the YLF stands as a reminder that the youth are not just the leaders of tomorrow, but also the architects of today’s India, paving the way towards a secure and developed nation.
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Indian army, National unity day, Sardar patel, Youth leadership, veer yuva
