Leh: Lieutenant Governor of Ladakh Kavinder Gupta on Friday flagged off and felicitated a 33-member Ladakh delegation proceeding to Delhi to participate in the “Viksit Bharat – Young India Dialogue” under the National Youth Festival 2026, reaffirming the Union Territory’s commitment to youth-led nation building.
Congratulating the selected participants, the Lieutenant Governor said the delegation would represent not only Ladakh but also the aspirations, talent and potential of its youth on a national platform. He underlined that the participation of Ladakhi youth reflects growing confidence, intellectual strength and readiness to contribute meaningfully to the country’s development.
Highlighting the significance of the Viksit Bharat initiative, the Lt Governor said the programme aligns with the vision of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who has consistently emphasised the central role of youth in shaping India’s future. He noted that the National Youth Festival provides an important forum for dialogue, innovation and policy-oriented thinking, enabling young minds to engage with national development goals.
Urging the participants to actively take part in discussions, the Lt Governor encouraged them to confidently present their ideas while showcasing Ladakh’s unique culture, values and identity. He expressed confidence that the delegation would return with new perspectives and inspiration to further contribute to the development of Ladakh and the nation.
Chief Secretary Ashish Kundra, in his address, described Ladakhi youth as talented and confident, and stressed the need to organise a Union Territory-level youth meet involving young people from across the region to further harness their potential.
Officials accompanying the delegation informed that youth from Leh and Kargil will participate in the Cultural and Innovation Track as well as the Viksit Bharat Challenge categories of the National Youth Festival. They expressed optimism about Ladakh’s performance at the national event.
The event was attended by Chief Secretary Ashish Kundra, Administrative Secretary, Youth Services and Sports, Moses Kunzang, and officials of the department. Participants and officials from Kargil joined the programme virtually.
