Governor Shiv Pratap Shukla, on Thursday, called upon the youth to channel their creative energy and intellectual potential toward the vision of a developed India by 2047.
Addressing the inaugural session of the Model United Nations and Youth Parliament, jointly organized under the Viksit Bharat@2047 initiative by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, Government of India, and Himachal Pradesh University, Shiv Pratap Shuklasaid said India’s progress depends on the enthusiasm and innovation of its young generation.
“India is a young nation, and It is the creative power of its youth that will transform the country into a developed nation,” he remarked.
He appreciated the fact that the event not only channels the intellectual energy of students but also contributes to realizing the dream of a developed India by 2047.
Commending the students for combining modern debates with traditional values, he said, “Our youth discuss global issues while keeping their local culture alive. This cultural consciousness is the soul of our democracy and the true identity of India.”
Highlighting the spirit of Himachal’s young generation, the Governor observed that the “Gen Z” of Himachal differs from their global peers. “Here, young people pull the chariot of Lord Raghunath during Kullu Dussehra, preserving faith and tradition. It is this spirit that will help India regain its status as a Vishwaguru,” he added.
He described the youth as not merely the future, but the present of the nation, representing the simplicity, honesty, and humanity of Himachal Pradesh. He urged them to carry these values forward in life.
Expressing concern over incidents of violence in universities, he appealed to student organizations to resolve ideological differences through dialogue instead of confrontation. “Disrupting the academic environment benefits no one; channel your strength for nation-building,” he advised.
Emphasizing the importance of diversity of thought, Shukla said, “This is the true strength of democracy.”
He also reminded students that rights come with responsibilities, citing constitutional provisions and urging adherence to rules.
“Shimla is no longer the Shimla it used to be because of negligence toward civic discipline,” he said.
Praising Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, the Governor said that the ‘Panch Sankalp’ given by him reflects the spirit of the Viksit Bharat program. “Adopting these resolutions is a step toward building a new and developed India,” he stated, urging youth to contribute actively through their ideas, ideals, and actions.
Himachal Pradesh University Vice-Chancellor Prof. Mahavir Singh welcomed the Governor and said such programs give new direction to students’ intellectual development.
Delivering the keynote address, National Law University, Shimla, Prof. Preeti Saxena, Vice-Chancellor of the emphasized the need to balance development with environmental conservation. “Development must not come at the cost of the environment. Disrupting this balance can have disastrous consequences,” she warned.
She also discussed sustainable growth, disaster risk reduction, voting rights, and the role of the Election Commission under the Constitution.