‘Viksit Bharat’ is a mass movement created only through public participation: Anurag Singh Thakur

Member of Parliament (Lok Sabha) Anurag Singh Thakur asserted that no power in the world can stop Indian youth, who are poised to build a Developed India or Viksit Bharat. He was speaking at the ‘Viksit Bharat Ambassador – Yuva Connect’ event at Fergusson College in Pune today, where he was present as the Chief Guest, Shri  Thakur emphasized that youth participation will shape the future of the nation.

During his keynote address, Shri Anurag Thakur highlighted that Fergusson College is not only a center of knowledge but has also produced patriots, intellectuals, leaders, social reformers and two Prime Ministers of the nation! He recognized the present students are heirs to this legacy, as also the current and future makers of the nation.

In his presentation, Shri Anurag Thakur explained various government schemes introduced since 2014, as well as plans and activities set for the coming years. He informed students about initiatives like the Lakhpati Didi Yojana, aimed at providing economic independence and self-confidence to women, and other ongoing efforts to integrate tribals into the mainstream of society. He stated that the Government’s priority is to make farmers self-reliant and improve infrastructure in health, transportation and other sectors.

Shri Anurag Thakur also discussed Jan Dhan Yojana, which has enabled all Indians to open bank accounts and receive Direct Benefit Transfers from the government. He noted increased digital financial transactions showcase the success of Digital India scheme. The return of fake ration cards and voluntarily giving up of LPG concessions show the success of the Government’s initiatives. He reiterated that the provision of electricity, tap water connection, health facilities and gas connections signify that common citizens are a top priority for the Central Government.

Shri Thakur also remarked that India has rejected a slavery mentality in favor of a developed mindset, exemplified by initiatives like ‘Gati Shakti’ in space and infrastructure sectors. He expressed confidence that India is not only developing its own defence equipment, but is also preparing to export it. After the success of Make in India, he predicted that the next iPhone will be produced in India under the ‘Design in India’ initiative.

Shri Anurag Thakur also engaged with students, answering their questions on topics such as competitive exams, workplace stress and accidents, rising drug abuse among youth, importance of rural development, role of NGOs in the defence sector, qualities needed for global success, challenges in the sports sector and unemployment.

Shri Anurag Thakur also participated in planting a tree on the college premises as part of the ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ initiative and enjoyed a game of cricket with the students.

Entrepreneur Dr. Sudhir Mehta, who was present on the occasion as a ‘Youth Icon,’ stated that every citizen can contribute to the Prime Minister’s vision of Viksit Bharat. He spoke about Pune’s rapid development in various sectors, including education, medicine, electric vehicles and technology.  Shri Pramod Rawat, President of the Deccan Education Society, was also present amongst the dignitaries, apart from  officials, teachers and students of the college. On this occasion, students received comprehensive information about the ‘My Bharat’ portal from the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports.

Under the ‘Viksit Bharat Ambassador – Yuva Connect’ initiative, the importance of youth participation and responsibility in achieving a developed India is being emphasized through interactions with students across various colleges in Maharashtra.