National Youth Day: Swami Vivekananda (January 12, 1863 – July 4, 1902) is considered as one of the most influential spiritual educationists and thinkers of India. He was a disciple of Ramakrishna Paramahamsa and the founder of Ramakrishna Math and Ramakrishna Mission. He is considered by many as an icon for his fearless courage, his positive exhortations to the youth, his broad outlook to social problems, and countless lectures and discourses on Vedanta philosophy.
For him, “Education is not the amount of information that is put into your brain and runs riots there, undigested all your life. We must have life-building, man-making, character-making, assimilation of ideas.” It is rightly said that, “The Swami’s mission was both national and international. A lover of mankind, he strove to promote peace and human brotherhood on the spiritual foundation of the Vedantic Oneness of existence.
A mystic of the highest order, Vivekananda had a direct and intuitive experience of Reality. He derived his ideas from that unfailing source of wisdom and often presented them in the soul stirring language of poetry.
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Contributions on National Youth Day
His famous quotations include, “Arise, awake and stop not till the goal is reached.” He also added that anything making a child physically, intellectually and spiritually weak must be rejected as a poison. He also emphasized on an education that leads to character formation.
His establishment of “Ramakrishna Math” and “Ramkrishna Mission” was a sign of “Guru Bhakti”, his sacrifice, austerity, and service of the poor and the downtrodden people of India. He was also a founder of Belur Math.
He spread the message of divinity and the true aims of scriptures. This great patriotic monk of Mother Earth took his last breath on 4th July 1902 at Belur Math.
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What is National Youth Day 2025?
The National Youth Day on 12th January is celebrated every year in commemoration of Swami Vivekananda, whose unwavering belief in the potential of youth continues to resonate deeply with young citizens of the country.
His inspiring life and empowering message urge the youth to nurture their dreams, unleash their energies, and shape a future worthy of his envisioned ideals, much in line with the vision – Viksit Bharat @2047 as propounded by the Hon’ble Prime Minister, Sh. Narendra Modiji. On 12th January 2024, the occasion of the 161st Birth Anniversary of the Swami Vivekananda, NYKS will kick start a week long grand celebration across all the districts of the country.
Objectives of Youth Day
To generate awareness about the life and message of Swami Vivekananda to inspire and motivate youth to participate in nation-building.
- To involve youth in various activities on the themes of Youth Week to promote the spirit of service and volunteerism.
- Celebration of National Youth Day on 12th January 2024
- Duration: 1 day (12 th January,2024)
- Coverage: 763 Districts
- Budget: Rs. 40,000 per District
History of the day
In 1965, the United Nations General Assembly initiated a program aimed at engaging young adults. They supported the Declaration on Promoting Peace, Mutual Respect, and Understanding among Youth and started allocating resources to empower young people. This included recognizing emerging leaders and providing them with the tools needed to address global challenges. In 1999, the UNGC approved the recommendation from the World Conference of Ministers Responsible for Youth, leading to the establishment of International Youth Day. The first commemoration of this day took place on August 12, 2000.
Empowerment and Resources
The day underscores the importance of empowering youth by providing them with the necessary resources for their development. Initiatives often include workshops, concerts, and cultural events that allow young people to express their concerns and achievements while fostering their growth.
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Advocacy for Participation
International Youth Day advocates for increased participation of youth in decision-making processes at local, national, and international levels. It highlights the necessity of giving young people a voice in policies that affect their lives, thus promoting civic engagement and leadership
National Youth Day 2025 Themes
Each year, International Youth Day is centered around a specific theme that addresses different aspects of youth development. For instance, the 2024 theme is “From Clicks to Progress: Youth Digital Pathways for Sustainable Development,” focusing on how digitalization can enhance sustainable development efforts.
Observance of National Youth Day in India
On National Youth Day, various events and activities take place across the country to celebrate the vibrancy and enthusiasm of the youth. Educational institutions, government bodies and NGOs organize seminars, workshops, cultural programs and discussions centered around Swami Vivekananda’s teachings. These events focus on instilling a sense of national pride, social responsibility and spiritual values among the youth.
Additionally, National Youth Day encourages physical fitness and sports activities, promoting a healthy lifestyle and teamwork. Youth clubs, colleges and universities actively participate in rallies and campaigns addressing issues such as education, employment, environment, and social justice.
Role of NGOs in empowering India’s youth
NGOs play a crucial role in empowering the youth of India by addressing various challenges they face including education, unemployment, poverty and social inequality. On National Youth Day, let’s explore how NGOs work toward creating an enabling environment that fosters personal and collective development among the youth.
How to Celebrate International Youth Day?
International Youth Day acts as an opportunity for youth to express their thoughts and opinions. Given below are some of the ways that you can show your support and celebrate this day:
Attend Youth Camps
You can show appreciation and support by attending an International Youth Day event. These events usually have concerts, parades, sporting events, mobile exhibitions, etc., that highlight the achievements of the youth population.
Also Read: Role of UNESCO in Education
Play Your Part
Education is the most valuable thing we can offer the younger generation. Consider mentorship programs and look into how you can impart knowledge and skills. There are several big brother/sister programs, music programs, and assisted speech therapy programs that you can consider.
Participate in Intergenerational Discussions
You can engage in forums and discussions between adults and the youth population. Try to come up with topics related to the year’s theme, and pay attention to the thoughts and ideas of the young generation.
Wrapping Up!
International Youth Day acts as a global platform to recognise youth’s potential and daily challenges. The 2024 theme focuses on utilising technological developments for innovation and meeting sustainable development goals. By having a thorough understanding of the history, importance, and theme of this day, we can play our part in empowering youth leadership and ensuring a brighter future. Whether through attending events, engaging in debates, or mentoring young people, let’s all play our part to support the leaders of tomorrow!
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