DAV University, Jalandhar was accorded the prestigious opportunity to participate in the 29th National Youth Festival, a renowned national-level cultural and youth engagement event organized by the Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports, Government of India in New Delhi from January 7-13, 2026. It brought together young talent from across the country on a common platform to celebrate culture, innovation, leadership, and national development.
The University was proudly represented by a student musical group comprising Ranjana (B.Tech Computer Science), Neetu (B.Sc Psychology), Himani (B.Sc Biotechnology), Gorang Sharma (B.Sc Physics), and Babandeep Singh (B.Tech Computer Science). Their group song performance reflected artistic harmony, cultural richness, discipline, and creativity, enabling DAV University to showcase its commitment to holistic education and cultural excellence at the national level.
The National Youth Festival was organized alongside the second edition of the Viksit Bharat Young Leaders’ Dialogue (VBYLD 2026), an important initiative of the Department of Youth Affairs under the leadership of Union Minister of Youth Affairs & Sports and Labour & Employment by Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi, aimed at strengthening youth participation in India’s development journey. The programme commenced on Jan 7, 2026 with a gracious send-off hosted by Sh. Gulab Chand Kataria, Hon’ble Governor of Punjab. The interaction and courtesy lunch extended to all participating contingents provided an encouraging beginning and reaffirmed the state’s support for youth leadership.
The Dialogue gained momentum on Jan 9, 2026 with an inspiring Opening Ceremony and Orientation Address delivered by Dr. Pallavi Jain Govil, Secretary, Ministry of Youth Affairs. The inaugural session was spiritually enriched by an address from Kum. Jaya Kishori, emphasizing ethical leadership, values, and national consciousness. The day witnessed extensive selection rounds across diverse cultural categories, including music, dance, poetry, declamation, painting, and design exhibitions. Simultaneously, challenge track presentations were conducted across ten thematic domains such as youth in democracy, women-led development, start-up innovation, sustainability, cultural diplomacy, and workforce transformation. Participants also visited the Prime Ministers’ Museum and Library, gaining deeper insights into India’s democratic heritage.
On Jan 10, 2026, the programme continued with remaining cultural rounds and painting competitions. Young leaders presented innovative, policy-oriented ideas before eminent experts and participated in the ‘Hack for Social Change’, highlighting the role of youth-driven innovation in addressing societal challenges. Interaction sessions with Hon’ble Ministers and Members of Parliament further strengthened the linkage between youth aspirations and governance.
The Dialogue reached a defining milestone on Jan 11, 2026 with interactions with Global and National Icons, mentoring sessions for finalists, and the presentation of select ideas before the Hon’ble Prime Minister of India. The evening concluded with the vibrant cultural showcase ‘Colours of Viksit Bharat’ celebrating India’s unity in diversity.
The programme culminated on Jan 12, 2026 with an award ceremony recognizing exceptional talent and leadership. The Hon’ble Prime Minister, Sh. Narendra Modi, also launched an essay compilation authored by participating young leaders, encapsulating their collective vision for a developed India. His interaction with the youth served as a profound source of motivation and pride for all participants.
DAV University, Jalandhar gratefully acknowledges the visionary leadership and constant support of Hon’ble Vice-Chancellor - Prof. (Dr.) Manoj Kumar, revered Registrar - Prof. (Dr.) S K Arora, and Dean Students’ Welfare - Dr. Kamaljeet Kaur Sidhu. Their guidance and encouragement enabled the students to represent the University with confidence and distinction, reinforcing DAV University’s strong presence on prestigious national platforms.