SRINAGAR, July 24, 2025: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha today addressed the Viksit Bharat Yuva Connect Program at the Islamic University of Science and Technology (IUST), Awantipora, calling youth the driving force behind Jammu and Kashmir’s transformation and India’s march towards a developed future.
Lauding the program launched by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, the LG described Yuva Connect as a vital platform for structured youth engagement, aimed at bridging the gap between policymakers and young citizens.
“The youth of J&K will be the architects of peace, prosperity, and progress. Their innovation and leadership are key to building a Viksit Bharat by 2047,” the LG said, urging young minds to embrace the Prime Minister’s “Panch Pran” and contribute to nation-building.
He emphasized the program’s objectives—Engage, Encourage, Enable, and Inspire—and called on students to lead civic change, find solutions to national challenges, and participate actively in democratic and developmental processes.
On Education and Innovation
Praising IUST’s academic reforms, the LG said the university had set an example for higher education transformation in the region. “This is the right time for IUST to work on establishing a semiconductor lab. Universities must drive economic growth and innovation,” he added.
On Drug-Free Campuses
Reiterating his commitment to a drug-free Jammu & Kashmir, LG Sinha announced new campus-level initiatives:
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Mandatory anti-drug oath at admissions
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Formation of ‘Say No To Drugs’ student committees
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Confidential reporting mechanisms
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Counselling support via helplines like Tele-MANAS
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Inclusion of drug de-addiction awareness in the curriculum
“Only drug-free campuses can contribute meaningfully to nation-building,” he stressed.
Other Highlights
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The LG paid tribute to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel and urged youth to work towards an inclusive society.
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He released IUST’s Institutional Development Plan and the University’s latest publication.
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Winners of pre-events like debates and youth parliaments were felicitated.
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A special “Yuva Samvad” session was held on civic duty and national development, followed by the screening of Sardar@150.
The event also featured key officials including Shantmanu (ACS, Higher Education), DC Pulwama Basharat Qayoom, and IUST Vice Chancellor Prof. Shakil Ahmad Romshoo.
