The Union Minister was speaking at the induction training programme DIKSHA District Youth Officers Dedicated Induction Training for Knowledge, Skill and Holistic Attitude for Service held at the Civil Services Officers’ Institute (CSOI), New Delhi.
Dr Mandaviya reminded the officers that their role extends beyond administration, as they are entrusted with shaping the mindset and aspirations of millions of young Indians. He urged them to align every initiative with the broader national goal of inclusive and sustainable development.
Harnessing India’s Demographic Dividend
Highlighting India’s unique demographic advantage, the minister pointed out that nearly 65 percent of the population is below 35 years of age. He stressed that effective engagement of this young population is crucial for economic growth, social stability and nation-building.
He described the District Youth Officer framework and Mera Yuva Bharat (MY Bharat) as powerful platforms to channel youth energy into constructive nation-building activities, skill development and social service.
Appointment Letters and Youth Leadership Vision
During the ceremony, Dr Mandaviya also handed over appointment letters to the newly recruited DYOs who were selected through the Pratibha Setu Portal. The induction marked the formal beginning of their service journey in the youth affairs ecosystem.
The minister also referred to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s clarion call to create one lakh youth leaders across the country, stating that the newly appointed officers will play a central role in identifying, mentoring and nurturing future leadership.
Lessons from the Bhagavad Gita
Drawing inspiration from the Bhagavad Gita, Dr Mandaviya emphasised the importance of hard work, moral values and unwavering commitment to duty. He said these principles would help officers succeed not only professionally but also in their personal lives.
He urged the DYOs to act as role models for youth by demonstrating discipline, integrity and compassion in public service.
Service Before Self: Key Message from Secretary
Addressing the gathering, Pallavi Jain Govil, Secretary, Department of Youth Affairs, highlighted the ethos of “Service before Self” as the cornerstone of effective governance and nation-building.
She called upon the officers to work at the grassroots level, contribute to community development and ensure that youth engagement translates into tangible social impact.
Building Youth-Centric Governance
The induction programme underlined the government’s focus on youth-centric governance, where empowered officers act as facilitators of opportunity, skill development and civic responsibility.
Conclusion
The orientation of newly appointed District Youth Officers marks an important step in strengthening India’s youth engagement framework. With a clear mandate, structured training and a service-oriented vision, the DYOs are expected to play a transformative role in realising the dream of Viksit Bharat.
As India looks to its young population as the engine of progress, leadership grounded in integrity, service and national commitment will remain the key to shaping the country’s future.