Democracy lies in active participation of Bharat’s youth
Jaipur/Leh, Sept 16: Speaking at the India Youth Parliament in Jaipur on Democracy Day, Lieutenant Governor Ladakh, Kavinder Gupta on Tuesday described democracy as a way of life rooted in India’s ancient ethos, citing Vedic literature and Chanakya’s political ethics.
As Chief Guest, he praised the revitalization of Indian democracy since 2014 under Prime Minister Narendra Modi, driven by the mantra “Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas, Sabka Prayas.”
Gupta highlighted initiatives like Jan Dhan Yojana, Digital India, and Direct Benefit Transfer for enhancing transparency, inclusivity, and empowerment of women, youth, and rural communities, calling India’s democracy a vibrant, participatory people’s movement.
“Democracy is not merely a modern system of governance but a way of life deeply rooted in India’s civilizational ethos. References to democratic thought can be traced back to Vedic literature and ancient texts, and that great thinkers like Chanakya laid the foundations of political ethics and governance in India,” the LG said.
The Lt Governor urged the youth to actively participate in democratic processes, from Panchayats to Parliament, and contribute responsibly to nation-building.
He stressed that the true spirit of democracy lies in dialogue, cooperation, and civic responsibility. Young citizens, he said, must go beyond applause to offering constructive suggestions and engaging in areas like cleanliness, environment, education, and technology to further strengthen democracy.
The Lt Governor also lauded Ashutosh Joshi, National Convenor of the Indian Youth Parliament, for organising the event and providing a meaningful platform to young people to express their views, engage in dialogue, and strengthen democratic values.
Concluding his address, Kavinder Gupta called upon the younger generation to uphold the values of unity, harmony, and national integration, stating that the strength of India’s democracy lies in the active role played by its youth.
In the related development amidst LG’s tour outside Ladakh UT, Gupta the other day extended a heartfelt invitation to the people of Navi Mumbai and Maharashtra to visit Ladakh and immerse themselves in its breathtaking beauty, rich culture, and warm hospitality.
The LG drew inspiration from a famous tourism campaign, saying, ‘Just as Amitabh Bachchan said, ‘Kuch Din Toh Guzariye Gujarat Mein,’ I say today, ‘Kuch Din Toh Aaiyein Ladakh Mein.’”
He emphasized that Ladakh is more than a destination, it’s an unforgettable experience.
“In every direction you explore, Ladakh offers new horizons, unique charm, and stories waiting to be uncovered,” Gupta asserted.
Sharing the remarkable transformation of the Union Territory, Gupta highlighted that under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Ladakh has witnessed unprecedented infrastructural development.
“From Leh, one can now travel nearly 200 km deep, right up to our borders with Pakistan, on world-class roads. The quality of these roads, in many cases, even surpasses those of metropolitan states like Maharashtra,” he added.
The LG stressed that the development of Ladakh is a testimony to the Central Government’s resolve of reaching the last mile and leaving no region untouched.
“We are working with dedication to ensure that every corner of Ladakh reflects progress, prosperity, and inclusivity. Our mission is clear — to serve Bharat Mata with complete devotion and to strengthen the fabric of national unity,” he asserted.
