Jaipur, September 16: Democracy is not merely a modern system of governance but a way of life deeply rooted in India’s civilizational ethos. References to democratic thought can be traced back to Vedic literature and ancient texts, and that great thinkers like Chanakya laid the foundations of political ethics and governance in India.
This was stated by the Hon’ble Lieutenant Governor of Ladakh, Kavinder Gupta while addressing the India Youth Parliament held in Jaipur, Rajasthan, on the occasion of Democracy Day.
The Lt Governor, was the Chief Guest, said that after 2014, under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, democracy in India has been infused with new energy and strength. With the mantra of “Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas, and Sabka Prayas”, democracy has reached the grassroots level. He highlighted how initiatives like Jan Dhan Yojana, Digital India, and Direct Benefit Transfer have strengthened transparency, accountability, and inclusivity, empowering women, youth, and rural communities.
Shri Kavinder Gupta emphasized that today, India’s democracy is more inclusive, participatory, and result-oriented than ever before, evolving into a vibrant people’s movement.
The Lt Governor urged the youth to actively participate in democratic processes, from Panchayats to Parliament, and contribute responsibly to nation-building. He stressed that the true spirit of democracy lies in dialogue, cooperation, and civic responsibility. Young citizens, he said, must go beyond applause to offering constructive suggestions and engaging in areas like cleanliness, environment, education, and technology to further strengthen democracy.
The Lt Governor also lauded Ashutosh Joshi, National Convenor of the Indian Youth Parliament, for organizing the event and providing a meaningful platform to young people to express their views, engage in dialogue, and strengthen democratic values.
Concluding his address, Kavinder Gupta called upon the younger generation to uphold the values of unity, harmony, and national integration, stating that the strength of India’s democracy lies in the active role played by its youth.
