Governor Shiv Pratap Shukla chaired the closing ceremony of the Viksit Bharat Youth Leadership Dialogue and Drug-Free India Campaign at Sardar Patel University (SPU), Mandi, emphasizing the pivotal role of youth in shaping a developed India by 2047.
Addressing the gathering, the Governor said that the energy, creativity and curiosity of young people are essential for realizing the vision of a developed nation. He urged students to view education not merely as a means to secure employment but as a powerful tool for innovation, societal transformation and nation-building. He encouraged them to cultivate leadership qualities along with discipline in life.
Highlighting India’s rapid economic progress, Shri Shukla said that the country, currently the world’s fourth-largest economy, is poised to overtake Germany next year to become the third-largest. He credited the rise of start-ups, digital advancements, progress in space research and growing infrastructure to the dedicated efforts of the youth.
Focusing on drug de-addiction, the Governor warned that drug abuse harms individuals, families and national progress. He said there is a deliberate attempt to target youth with synthetic drugs and called for collective action to combat this challenge. Stressing zero tolerance against drugs, he appealed to students to channel their energy into sports, yoga, music, art and other positive pursuits, while keeping themselves and others away from harmful substances. He also shared that the Drug-Free Himachal campaign—launched on the inspiration of Prime Minister Narendra Modi—has expanded from higher educational institutions to the panchayat level.
Shri Shukla praised Sardar Patel University for emerging as a center of knowledge, research and national awareness, and congratulated the institution for its continuous progress. He urged the Vice-Chancellor to further strengthen yoga and sports activities in the university.
During the event, the Governor inaugurated a blood donation camp, visited a painting exhibition, and released a photo book illustrating the inspirational life journey of Sardar Patel. He also honored winners of story writing, speech, painting and poetry competitions held under the campaign, stating that the talent and determination of today’s youth will shape the nation’s future.
Sardar Patel University Vice-Chancellor Prof. Lalit Kumar Awasthi shared the institution’s achievements and outlined future plans. The welcome address was delivered by Dean of Student Welfare Rajesh Kumar, while Registrar Shashipal Negi proposed the vote of thanks.
MLA and former minister Anil Sharma, Mayor Virender Bhatt Sharma and other dignitaries were also present on the occasion.