SHIMLA-16 October, 2025-Governor Shiv Pratap Shukla while inaugurating the Model United Nations and Youth Parliament in the HP University today said that India was a young Nation and the creativity and energy of its youth would shape it into a developed country in near future.

The seminar was organized under the Viksit Bharat@2047 initiative by the Union Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports and Himachal Pradesh University.

The Governor said that such events serve as a powerful platform to channelize the energy and intellect of the youth, inspiring them to contribute meaningfully towards the vision of a developed India by year 2047.

He appreciated that students were discussing national and global issues while keeping their culture alive. “This cultural awareness is the soul of our democracy,” he said.

Speaking about Gen-Z, he said that the youth of Himachal Pradesh stand out for their deep-rooted connection with their culture and traditions. He added that he has personally witnessed their active participation in preserving and promoting these values during events like the Kullu Dussehra and other religious festivities. “In Kullu Dussehra, the young devotees pull the chariot of Lord Raghunath with immense reverence, reflecting their unwavering respect for our cultural heritage,” he remarked, adding that such spirit and devotion among the youth would once again help India emerge as a Vishvaguru.

He said the youth were not just the present but the future of the country, carrying forward Himachal’s simplicity, honesty and humanity. “Channel your energy for Nation-building, not conflicts, he appealed to the youth.”

The Governor emphasized that the real strength of democracy lies in diversity of thought and reminded the youth that the 'Rights come with Responsibilities'.

He praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s ‘Panch Sankalp’, saying it aligns with the spirit of this initiative and is a step towards building a new India. He called upon the youth to contribute through their ideas, ideals, and actions to achieve Viksit Bharat by 2047.

Prof. Mahavir Singh, Vice-Chancellor, welcomed the Governor and said such programs guide student's intellectual growth. Prof. Preeti Saxena, Vice-Chancellor of National Law University, Shimla, stressed balancing development with environmental protection and spoke on sustainable development and voting rights.

Deans, faculty members, students, and other dignitaries were present on the occasion.