Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee (IIT Roorkee) successfully hosted the concluding ceremony of Yuva Sangam – V, marking the culmination of a transformative journey under the Ministry of Education’s Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat (EBSB) initiative. This edition welcomed 45 student delegates from Jharkhand, accompanied by faculty coordinators from IIT (ISM) Dhanbad, for a culturally enriching experience exploring Uttarakhand’s heritage, industry, and community.
Over several days, student delegates from Jharkhand experienced Uttarakhand’s diverse landscapes, industrial progress, and rich traditions. Highlights included visits to spiritual hubs like Haridwar and Rishikesh, scenic Lansdowne, and the industrial areas of Kotdwar and SIDCUL. Participants also visited Mirpur village, where they engaged with women’s self-help groups, gaining insights into grassroots empowerment. These interactions highlighted how local women are setting remarkable examples by empowering themselves and driving community progress. The program underscored the transformative impact of unity in diversity, equipping young minds with leadership skills and a shared vision for a cohesive India.
The closing ceremony featured the esteemed presence of Prof. K.K. Pant, Director, IIT Roorkee, as Chief Guest. The program commenced with a ceremonial lamp lighting, followed by IIT Roorkee’s Kulgeet, setting a celebratory tone. The Nodal Officer, Prof. M.V. Sunil Krishna, presented a detailed tour report highlighting the program’s impactful activities, including industrial visits, cultural engagements, and community interactions. A unique highlight of the ceremony was experience-sharing by both participants and faculty, underscoring the initiative’s transformative impact.
Participants explored iconic destinations such as Haridwar, Rishikesh, Lansdowne, and Kotdwar, gaining insights into Uttarakhand’s natural and cultural heritage. The delegation also engaged with women’s self-help groups in a local village, offering them a grassroots understanding of sustainable livelihoods and rural development. Cultural performances from both Uttarakhand and Jharkhand enriched the evenings, showcasing India’s vibrant traditions.
Reflecting on the initiative, Prof. K.K. Pant, Director, IIT Roorkee, remarked, “Yuva Sangam is a testament to the strength of India’s diversity. It empowers our youth to appreciate varied cultural perspectives while nurturing leadership and collaboration. We are proud to contribute to this meaningful initiative and its role in fostering national unity.”
Participants shared heartfelt testimonials, with one student expressing, “This journey has been eye-opening and inspiring. Interacting with communities and experiencing Uttarakhand’s culture has deepened my appreciation for India’s diversity and strengthened my resolve to contribute to our nation’s unity.”
The ceremony concluded with memento distribution and vibrant cultural performances, leaving participants with cherished memories and a renewed sense of national pride. Yuva Sangam – V exemplifies IIT Roorkee’s commitment to advancing national integration and nurturing the next generation of leaders.
The fifth edition of Yuva Sangam, hosted by IIT Roorkee under the Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat initiative, culminated in a celebration of cultural exchange and mutual learning.
