Pune, August 01, 2026 : National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval on Saturday delivered a powerful message to the country’s youth, urging them to rise above personal ambitions and dedicate themselves wholeheartedly to the service of the nation. Speaking after receiving the prestigious Lokmanya Tilak National Award 2026 in Pune, Doval emphasized that India is passing through a historic phase and that the younger generation has a vital role in shaping the country’s future.
The award was presented to Doval by Union Home Minister Amit Shah at a ceremony organized by the Tilak Smarak Trust.
Addressing the gathering, Doval appealed to young Indians to make national interest their highest priority and not be distracted by short-term personal gains.
“Today’s youth should commit themselves completely to the national interest. They should be willing to sacrifice small personal interests and remain focused on building the nation,” Doval said.
Describing the present as a “window of opportunity” in India’s history, the NSA stressed that the nation cannot afford to lose this crucial moment.
“There is a window of opportunity in the history of our country. We cannot afford to lose it. Right now, our priority is to build the nation,” he remarked.
Expressing confidence in India’s future, Doval said the country possesses the strength and determination to create a new chapter in its history.
“I am confident that we will succeed in this endeavour and create a new history,” he added.
During his address, Doval also praised the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah, describing them as leaders with commitment and a clear vision for the country’s progress.
Paying rich tributes to Lokmanya Bal Gangadhar Tilak, Doval described him as far more than a freedom fighter, calling him a visionary social reformer and philosopher whose ideals continue to inspire generations.
Recalling an episode from Tilak’s life, Doval noted that even after losing his 21-year-old son during the plague epidemic in Pune, Tilak chose to remain with the people instead of leaving the city, demonstrating extraordinary courage and commitment.
He further reminded the youth that freedom was achieved through immense sacrifice and should never be taken for granted.
“Many young people think freedom means doing whatever they want. But freedom came through the sacrifices of countless individuals. Lokmanya Tilak awakened the nation’s consciousness and gave people the courage to raise their voice,” Doval said.
The NSA also cautioned against the misuse of rights, saying that those who sacrificed everything for India’s freedom would be deeply pained if citizens failed to uphold their responsibilities.
Referring to Tilak’s iconic slogan, ‘Swaraj is my birthright and I shall have it,’ Doval said the great leader wanted every Indian to embrace the spirit of responsibility and national service.
Accepting the Lokmanya Tilak National Award with humility, Doval expressed gratitude for the honour and reiterated his commitment to serving the nation.
His address concluded with a strong appeal to India’s youth to seize this historic opportunity, place the nation above self-interest, and contribute towards building a stronger, united, and self-reliant India.
