Vidushi Gaur/ New Delhi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in his latest Mann Ki Baat episode on Sunday, highlighted the vital role of youth in nation-building, calling for active participation in initiatives like the National Cadet Corps (NCC) and the upcoming Viksit Bharat Young Leaders Dialogue.

Marking NCC Day, PM Modi reflected on his own experiences as an NCC cadet, emphasizing its role in instilling discipline, leadership, and a spirit of service among youth. He noted a significant increase in NCC participation, with over 16 lakh cadets now enrolled, including a rise in girl cadets from 25% in 2014 to 40% in 2024. Efforts are also underway to involve youth from border areas, fostering inclusivity and a sense of national duty.

Sharing this month's #MannKiBaat. Do tune in! https://t.co/9LYgIkxg6R

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) November 24, 2024

Turning to digital empowerment, PM Modi praised young individuals who assist the elderly in navigating technology, particularly in using Digital Life Certificates, which have streamlined pension processes for over 80 lakh recipients. Stories of youth like Virendra from Lucknow and Mahesh from Bhopal, who help seniors embrace digital tools and protect them from cyber threats, exemplify this contribution. He reiterated the importance of raising awareness about cyber fraud, especially scams like "Digital Arrest."

#MannKiBaat begins in a short while from now, at 11 AM. Do tune in… pic.twitter.com/YB9XNiBdCl

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) November 24, 2024

The Prime Minister also urged youth to participate in the Viksit Bharat Young Leaders Dialogue, slated for January 11-12, 2025, at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi. Timed with the 162nd birth anniversary of Swami Vivekananda, the dialogue will bring together 2,000 young minds to chart innovative roadmaps for India’s development. PM Modi reiterated his call for non-political families to engage in politics, aligning with his broader vision of an inclusive and dynamic leadership shaping a developed India.

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"India’s youth are the driving force behind our dreams of a Viksit Bharat. Let us harness this energy to build a brighter future," the Prime Minister concluded.