Emphasising that student power is the foundation of national development, Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi urged young leaders to channel their potential into character-building, discipline, and social responsibility to achieve the vision of a prosperous Odisha and a developed India.
Addressing a massive state-level student leaders’ convention organised by the Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP) at Baramunda Ground on Wednesday, CM Majhi congratulated newly elected student representatives from colleges and universities across Odisha. Nearly 10,000 student leaders attended the event.
Higher Education Minister Suryabanshi Suraj, ABVP National General Secretary Dr. Birendra Singh Solanki, and other senior office-bearers of the organization were present on the occasion.
Focus on ‘Knowledge, Character, and Unity’
The conference centered on the core values of “Knowledge, Character, and Unity,” highlighting Swami Vivekananda’s ideals and the pivotal role of youth in nation-building. Speakers stressed that student leaders must look beyond winning campus elections or holding titles, urging them to act as active catalysts for social transformation and address real student issues on campuses.
In his address as the Chief Guest, CM Majhi asked student union leaders to advocate for student rights while connecting youth leadership with community service.
Key calls to action made by the Chief Minister included:
- Fostering drug-free and addiction-free educational campuses.
- Promoting innovation, social service, and active participation in cleanliness drives.
- Engaging actively in state initiatives such as the ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ tree plantation campaign.
Guarding Against Misinformation and Unrest
Raising concerns over forces attempting to create instability, the Chief Minister cautioned youth organizations against being misled by divisive narratives under labels like CJP or Gen-Z. He urged student leaders to counter misinformation not just on the ground, but through constructive debate and awareness on social media platforms.
CM Majhi stated that India’s youth must take a leading role in the country’s growth journey, aiming for a prosperous Odisha by 2036 (the centenary of Odisha state formation) and a developed India (Viksit Bharat) by 2047.
Government Initiatives for Youth Empowerment
Highlighting state government priorities, CM Majhi reiterated the administration’s commitment to youth development from “KG to PG.” He emphasised skill building, entrepreneurship, and startup ecosystems so that young people transition from being job seekers to job creators.
ABVP National General Secretary Dr Birendra Singh Solanki guided delegates on organisational values, goals, and methodology. Discussions focused on expanding campus activities, advocating for student welfare, and nurturing a healthy academic environment across educational institutions in Odisha.
The convention followed the recent resumption of student union elections across various colleges and universities in the state, where ABVP claimed strong performance.
