LUCKNOW, OCTOBER 14, 2026 : Former President Ram Nath Kovind has urged young Indians to actively participate in politics, governance and public life, asserting that honest and capable people must enter politics to ensure better governance and strengthen democracy.
Speaking at the launch of the Hindi edition of his autobiography, Bharatiya Ganarajya Ki Vijay Gatha: Mera Jeevan, Mera Sangharsh (Triumph of the Indian Republic: My Life, My Struggles), Kovind challenged the perception that there is no place for decent people in contemporary politics.
He emphasised that participation in democracy should not be restricted to voting, encouraging young people to take a more active role in shaping the country’s future.
“Many people often believe that there is no place for decent people in politics, particularly in today’s politics. But I believe this perception is completely wrong. If we want good governance, decent people must actively participate in politics,” Kovind said.
Youth Must Take an Active Role in Democracy
Quoting the ancient Greek philosopher Plato, Kovind highlighted the consequences of good people remaining indifferent to public affairs. He argued that if capable individuals avoid contesting elections, voters are left to choose from among those who enter the political arena.
He said every young Indian possesses the potential to reach the highest positions in their chosen fields, whether in education, science, medicine, law or public service, including the offices of minister, chief minister, prime minister and president.
Kovind encouraged young people to pursue their ambitions with determination, perseverance and confidence, adding that India’s democratic system, constitutional values and republican traditions provide opportunities for individuals to realise their potential.
He expressed hope that his autobiography would inspire young Indians to overcome challenges and pursue their goals.
From a Village in Uttar Pradesh to Rashtrapati Bhavan
Reflecting on his journey from Paraunkh village in Uttar Pradesh’s Kanpur Dehat district to Rashtrapati Bhavan, Kovind described his rise to the presidency as more than a personal achievement.
He said it represented the strength of the Indian Republic, the ideals of the Constitution and the aspirations of millions of Indians who believe that hard work, education and determination can help people from modest backgrounds achieve extraordinary success.
Kovind recalled his father’s strong belief in education as a means of overcoming poverty and opening doors to opportunities.
According to Kovind, his family owned approximately 10–12 bighas of agricultural land, but his father chose to give it away rather than divide it among his five sons. He believed education was essential to ensuring that his children could build better futures.
Kovind credited education with playing a decisive role in shaping his life and enabling him to rise from humble circumstances to the country’s highest constitutional office.
Politics as a Platform for National Service
Kovind also reflected on his decision to join the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), saying he was influenced by its emphasis on placing the nation first and promoting inclusive development beyond divisions such as caste, regionalism and dynastic politics.
He cited former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee, former Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Kalyan Singh, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath as examples of leaders who rose from relatively modest backgrounds to hold prominent public offices.
He said his political journey brought him into contact with leaders who regarded politics not merely as a means of acquiring power but as an opportunity to serve the nation.
Kovind Praises Uttar Pradesh’s Development Initiatives
The former President praised the development initiatives undertaken in Uttar Pradesh under Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, highlighting infrastructure projects such as expressways, airports and metro services.
He said effective implementation of welfare schemes could help extend the benefits of employment, education and development to all sections of society.
Kovind also referred to the 2025 Maha Kumbh in Prayagraj, describing the event as a showcase of India’s spiritual heritage, faith and social harmony before the international community.
He acknowledged the affection and encouragement he had received from the people of Uttar Pradesh throughout his public life.
Hindi Autobiography to Inspire Future Generations
The event marked the launch of the Hindi edition of Kovind’s autobiography by Rupa Publications. He thanked the publisher for bringing out the book and said the National Book Trust had expressed willingness to publish it in India’s regional languages.
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, Deputy Chief Ministers Keshav Prasad Maurya and Brajesh Pathak, Assembly Speaker Satish Mahana, state ministers Suresh Kumar Khanna and Asim Arun, Kovind’s wife Savita Kovind, and Rupa Publications Managing Director Kapish Mehra were among those present.
Kovind’s central message to young Indians was clear: good governance requires the active participation of honest, capable and committed people in politics and public life.
