NDTV YUVA: A Convergence of Visionaries and Young Changemakers

The sixth edition of NDTV YUVA Conclave ignited a dynamic exchange of ideas, uniting youth leaders, policymakers, and trailblazers in a powerful dialogue on leadership, resilience, and nation-building. Held in New Delhi yesterday, the event became a crucible of inspiration, where young minds engaged with visionaries, challenged conventions, and explored pathways to a stronger, more progressive India. Through compelling conversations and bold perspectives, the conclave reinforced the undeniable force of youth in shaping the nation’s future.  

Jyotiraditya M. Scindia, Union Minister for Communications and Development of North Eastern Region, Govt. of India, emphasized the crucial role of young Indians in building a Viksit Bharat. He stated, "Flip through history, and you'll see—every major shift, revolution, or innovation, whether thousands of years ago or in today’s digital world, was driven by the youth." Moving forward, he referred to ‘70% of India’s population under 35’ as a "demographic and democratic dividend," remarking, "We’re talking about nearly 90 crore people—three times the US population and twice the combined population of Eastern and Western Europe."  

India’s startup landscape has surged from a handful to nearly 1.75 lakh startups and 100+ unicorns. He highlighted key government initiatives, including the PM Internship Programme, which links young professionals with the top 500 companies and has enrolled 8,000 this year with a ₹2,000 crore budget. Additionally, ₹6,000 crore has been allocated to R&D, enabling universities to access global research and accelerating India's shift from a services-led to a product-driven economy. Reaffirming PM Modi’s vision, he stated, “We are moving from Amrit Kaal to Shatabdi Kaal— from a developing to a developed, from dependent to self-reliant India.” 

Meanwhile, Tejashwi Yadav, Former Deputy Chief Minister, Bihar, launched a scathing attack on Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, likening his two-decade rule to that of an "old car" that has outlived its utility. Targeting the 74-year-old leader, he remarked, "The Chief Minister says the world will end in 10 years. Given his age, I believe he is no longer capable of running Bihar. The youth should take charge, and the state should be in their hands."  

A key AAP figure since 2012, Raghav Chadha, MP, Rajya Sabha, played a crucial role as treasurer and in drafting the Delhi Lokpal Bill. Reflecting on an unfulfilled academic aspiration, Chadha shared, "During my student days, I applied for Harvard Kennedy School's Master's in Public Policy. I wanted to study there for two years, but AAP had just formed, and we were contesting elections. Despite applying, I withdrew my application. That dream remained unfulfilled." This year, that dream materialized when he was invited to Harvard Kennedy School’s Global Leadership Programme. "Each year, the World Economic Forum selects top Young Global Leaders, a few of whom attend HKS for Public Policy training," he explained. Calling it a "once-in-a-lifetime opportunity," he said the experience would make him a "better" parliamentarian.  

The conclave hosted an engaging session titled "Yuva Women Powering Politics," where first-time Members of Parliament Shambhavi Choudhary (LJP-RV, Bihar), Kamaljeet Sehrawat (BJP, Delhi), and Dr. Byreddy Shabari (TDP, Andhra Pradesh) shared their experiences of entering politics, overcoming biases, and making their voices heard in Parliament. Ms. Sehrawat highlighted Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s initiative to induct one lakh youth into politics, stating, "The era of family-based politics is ending. Fresh minds are shaping the country's future."

Additionally, Sara Ali Khan, Actor, expressed gratitude for her father’s well-being, saying, “It makes you realise what truly matters. The entire family only felt gratitude because it could have gone so wrong. I am so grateful that everything is fine. It was a reminder almost of the life we have.” She highlighted the importance of mental well-being, adding, “Being grateful for your life is so important. And moments like that make you realise it.”  

Siddhant Chaturvedi, Actor, reflected on the distinct work styles of Bollywood’s leading actresses. “Alia is spontaneous, always ready with her lines. Deepika preps meticulously but appears effortless. She sits with a pencil, marks important lines, yet delivers with ease.”  

Zahan Kapoor, Actor, shared a childhood anecdote about discovering Sholay. “For me, Hrithik Roshan was the first superstar. I went crazy when Kaho Naa... Pyaar Hai released. I watched it repeatedly, even got a sheer black shirt like his. One day, I told my mom no film could be better. She insisted I watch Sholay. I was 12 when I finally did.” Clarifying misconceptions about his lineage, Kapoor said, “When I was born, Dadaji (Shashi Kapoor) had already retired. There was no pressure to join films. Conversations at home revolved around culture, politics, and society, not old films.”  

NDTV YUVA reaffirmed its commitment to empowering the next generation by facilitating thought-provoking discussions on politics, governance, and societal progress. Through compelling narratives, candid conversations, and visionary perspectives, the event illuminated the aspirations of India's youth and their capacity to drive meaningful change. As the nation moves toward a new era of growth and self-reliance, the conclave continues to serve as an essential catalyst for youth-driven transformation.