New Delhi, February 21, 2025 – Vice President of India delivered a thought-provoking address at the valedictory function of the 5th Rajya Sabha Internship Program, emphasizing the dual nature of modern challenges and opportunities. He highlighted India’s remarkable economic growth over the last decade, driven by infrastructure expansion, digitization, and people-centric policies. According to him, these developments have positioned India as one of the most aspirational nations in the world.
The Vice President made a strong case for unwavering commitment to nationalism. He stressed that national interest must always be prioritized over personal, political, or partisan considerations. Warning of forces inimical to Bharat, he urged the youth to be vigilant and dedicated to their constitutional responsibilities. He underscored that while fundamental rights are guaranteed, they are best earned when individuals also fulfill their fundamental duties as outlined in the Indian Constitution.
He elaborated on five key fundamentals essential for the nation’s progress:
1. Social Harmony – Transcending differences to nurture national unity, which is critical for sustaining India’s growth trajectory.
2. Family Enlightenment – Emphasizing strong familial and community bonds, rooted in the philosophy of ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’ (the world is one family).
3. Environmental Protection – Advocating for active participation in combating climate change, including initiatives like the Prime Minister’s ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ campaign.
4. Institutional Integrity – Defending India’s democratic institutions, including the Election Commission and Judiciary, from unwarranted ridicule and politically motivated criticism.
5. Security and Demographic Challenges – Addressing concerns over illegal migration, which he described as a significant threat to the workforce, welfare programs, and national security.
The Vice President strongly condemned the disrespect shown towards constitutional functionaries, particularly the President and Prime Minister. He expressed deep concern over political discourse that undermines the dignity of these offices, calling for a collective effort to uphold the sanctity of national institutions.
Referring to a recent statement by the U.S. President, he raised alarm over alleged foreign interference in India’s democratic processes. He called for a thorough investigation into these claims, asserting that the right to elect India’s leaders belongs solely to its people. Any external attempts to manipulate this process, he warned, pose a severe threat to national sovereignty and democratic values.
Concluding his address, the Vice President urged young citizens to be proactive in shaping the nation’s future. He emphasized the importance of a vigilant mindset, open dialogue, and a commitment to nationalism as essential tools to counter emerging challenges. He left the interns with a powerful message: the future of Bharat lies in their hands, and their choices will determine the nation’s trajectory in the years to come.
The event, held in the presence of distinguished dignitaries, marked the culmination of the Rajya Sabha Internship Program, which aims to provide students with first-hand exposure to India’s legislative processes and governance structures.
