Chandigarh, July 31
Haryana Vidhan Sabha Speaker Harvinder Kalyan on Friday called upon the youth to accord the nation the same priority as they give to themselves and their families, asserting that the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047 can be realised only through the active participation and commitment of the younger generation.
He was addressing a Youth Dialogue on Women Empowerment organised at the Haryana Vidhan Sabha on the martyrdom day of Shaheed Udham Singh. The programme, organised jointly by the Haryana Vidhan Sabha and the Delhi-based voluntary organisation Rajdhani Yuva Sansad, witnessed the participation of nearly 90 young delegates from more than 14 states. The event aimed to promote democratic values, nation-building and women’s empowerment among youth.
In his inaugural address, Mr. Kalyan said that just as individuals plan for the welfare and future of themselves and their families, they must also think seriously about the progress and development of the nation. He said every citizen has a responsibility towards the country’s future and that the dream of a developed India would become a reality only when young people dedicate their energy, talent and abilities to national service.
The Speaker also acquainted the participants with the history of the Capitol Complex and the Haryana Vidhan Sabha, while highlighting the vital role of the legislature in India’s parliamentary democracy. He recalled that after Independence, Shimla served as the joint capital of Punjab, Haryana and Himachal Pradesh, and that Chandigarh was later designated as the capital of Punjab and Haryana. He noted that the first sitting of the Assembly in the historic Capitol Complex building was held on March 6, 1961, adding that the Assembly has since witnessed many landmark decisions, visionary policies and historic deliberations.
Paying tributes to Shaheed Udham Singh, Mr. Kalyan described his unparalleled courage, patriotism and supreme sacrifice as a timeless source of inspiration for the youth. He urged young citizens to draw inspiration from the lives of such great revolutionaries and fulfil their responsibilities towards the nation with sincerity and dedication.
Speaking on women empowerment, the Speaker said that Indian civilisation has traditionally accorded the highest respect to women. Although certain social distortions emerged during the long period of foreign rule, sustained efforts after Independence have significantly strengthened women’s education, dignity, rights and equal opportunities. He emphasised that the goal of a developed India cannot be achieved without the active participation and leadership of women.
Mr. Kalyan also urged the youth to remain equally conscious of their civic duties as they are of their rights. He said the true strength of any nation lies in its aware, disciplined and responsible citizens. Democracy flourishes and the nation progresses when citizens sincerely discharge their duties, he added.
Highlighting the role of elected representatives, he said the real strength of democracy rests with the people. The more aware, accountable and sensitive their elected representatives are, the stronger democratic institutions become. Describing the Vidhan Sabha as the highest democratic forum of the state, he said it is the place where the government is held accountable for every rupee of taxpayers’ money, and that effective conduct of the House in accordance with parliamentary rules and traditions forms the foundation of good governance.
During the Youth Dialogue, participants shared their views on women empowerment, democratic values, civic responsibilities and the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047, besides gaining insights into various aspects of parliamentary functioning.
Based on their presentations, Manasvi secured the first position, followed by Tanik in second place, Osheen Sharma in third, and Bhumika Tyagi in fourth.
The programme was attended by Advocate Isha Kapoor, Co-founder of Rajdhani Yuva Sansad, Advocate Jai Saini, Co-founder of the organisation, and senior officers of the Haryana Vidhan Sabha.
