Prof (Dr.) Vikas Sharma & Dr. Abeeda Mushtaq
National Youth Day, also known as Yuva Diwas is celebrated annually on January 12th in India with enthusiasm and reverence, serving as a tribute to the incredible energy, creativity and potential that young people bring to society. In India, this day is of particular importance as it marks the birth anniversary of Swami Vivekananda, a renowned visionary whose teachings emphasized youth empowerment and spiritual growth. Swami Vivekananda’s inspiring life continues to motivate young minds to work towards a better and more inclusive society. The day is observed with enthusiasm, bringing communities together to recognize the significance of nurturing and empowering young individuals to drive meaningful change.Swami Vivekananda’s contributions to society, particularly his emphasis on education, self-reliance and moral values, made him an enduring symbol of youth empowerment. He believed that young people held the key to transforming the world and often addressed the need for their active involvement in nation-building. His famous speech at the World Parliament of Religions in Chicago in 1893, where he eloquently introduced Indian philosophy and spirituality to a global audience, showcased his belief in the power of youth to foster understanding and unity.
Youth are the backbone of any nation & their energy, innovation and resilience make them uniquely equipped to address some of the most pressing global challenges. Whether it’s combating climate change, driving technological advancements or advocating for social justice, young people are at the forefront of change. National Youth Day underscores the importance of nurturing this potential and creating an environment where young minds can thrive. It serves as a call to action for governments, organizations and communities to provide opportunities for youth development, education and leadership. Empowering young people is not just an investment in their future, but also a pathway to sustainable growth and progress for society as a whole. The teachings of Vivekananda are particularly relevant in the modern era, where youth face unique challenges and opportunities. Rapid technological advancements, globalization and social change have created a dynamic environment, offering both prospects for growth and obstacles to overcome. Vivekananda’s message of self-belief and focus provides valuable guidance for navigating this complexity. By adopting his principles, young people can cultivate a sense of purpose, channel their energy into meaningful pursuits and contribute to the greater good.
National Youth Day is not only a celebration of young people but also a reminder of the critical role they play in shaping the future. With their creativity and innovative spirit, they have the potential to drive progress in every sphere of life. For instance, in the fields of science and technology, young innovators are pushing boundaries and creating solutions to pressing global issues. In the realm of social advocacy, youth activists are leading movements for equality, climate action and human rights, inspiring communities to take action. Their contributions to culture and the arts, reflect the vibrancy and diversity of modern societies, preserving traditions while embracing progress.National Youth Day is also a time to address the challenges faced by young people, including unemployment, mental health issues and societal pressures. The fast-paced nature of modern life often places immense stress on the youth, making it essential to prioritize their well-being. Creating supportive networks, promoting open dialogue about mental health and encouraging self-care, can help young people to build resilience and thrive. Governments, institutions and communities must work together to ensure that youth have access to resources and support systems that enable them to overcome these challenges and reach their full potential.
The spirit of National Youth Day lies in its ability to inspire and unite. It encourages young people to believe in themselves and their ability to make a difference. By celebrating their achievements and recognizing their contributions, society reaffirms its commitment to nurturing the leaders, innovators and change-makers of tomorrow. The day serves as a platform for dialogue and collaboration, bringing together diverse voices to envision a future shaped by the aspirations and talents of young people.The decision to dedicate January 12th to the youth of India was particularly meaningful, as Swami Vivekananda spent much of his life advocating for their empowerment. He believed that a nation’s strength lay in its younger generation and emphasized their role in driving societal progress. His message, “Arise, awake and stop not till the goal is reached,” serves as an enduring reminder of his vision for the youth to take charge of their destiny and work towards a better future.
As we celebrate National Youth Day, it is important to remember that the energy and passion of youth are not bound by age. The values of self-belief, perseverance and social responsibility championed by Swami Vivekananda can inspire individuals of all generations. By embracing these principles and working together, we can create a world where every young person has the opportunity to flourish, making their dreams a reality and driving progress for all. National Youth Day is more than a celebration; it is a call to action. It reminds us of the limitless potential of young people and the collective responsibility to support and empower them. As we honor the legacy of Swami Vivekananda, let us commit to investing in the youth, nurturing their talents and creating a society where they can thrive. By doing so, we can unlock the transformative power of the younger generation, building a future that is brighter, more inclusive and full of promise.
(The authors are from the Division of Biochemistry, SKUAST-Jammu)
