The Energy and Resources Institute (TERI), concludes the #75ReelsforCelebratingIndia, a programme conceptualized to honour 75 years of India’s independence as well as the illustrious history of its people, culture, and accomplishments. The reel-making competition along with hosting a ‘National Youth Forum’, was implemented in partnership with the Ministry of Culture, Government of India, under the umbrella of Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav.
To celebrate the successful conclusion of this nationwide initiative, TERI organised the National Youth Forum in New Delhi on Tuesday. Approximately 200 young individuals participated in the felicitation ceremony held for the winners of the reel-making competition.
Dr Vibha Dhawan, Director General, TERI, extended a personalised welcome to each guest. Addressing a young crowd in her opening remarks, she said, “I feel you are the ones who perhaps will have to teach us.” Emphasising on green growth as the mantra, she added, “India is a country of innovators and so young people like you have the potential to show the way to the world that green growth is possible.” Smt. Meenakashi Lekhi, Hon’ble Minister of State for External Affairs & Culture, Ministry of Culture, Government of India underscored the idea that science is the art of questioning, pointing out that India &
culture is inherently rooted in the culture of science. Addressing the youth, she said, “You are the future leaders of the country. You should develop an analytical approach to understand different viewpoints and then conclude the best path based on your conclusions. Sustainable consumption is the new mantra and we should promote responsible behaviours” said Smt. Lekhi.
The guest of honour, Mr Sunit Tandon, Director, India Habitat Centre urged the young participants to channel their energies into shaping the India of their dreams by unlocking its full potential. While applauding TERI for its commendable initiative, Mr Tandon conveyed to the youthful audience that they are the torchbearers entrusted with carrying forward the rich traditions of the country during the Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav. In a comprehensive exploration of the competition under the theme & One Country, Many Cultures, Dr
Livleen Kahlon, Associate Director & Senior Fellow, TERI, expressed her admiration for the inspiring creativity displayed by the youngsters. “Youth is the best resource of any country. We all know that youth have a lot of responsibility. With about 66 percent of youth in India imagine the responsibility they have on their shoulders,” Dr Kahlon said.
The initial session wrapped up with Dr Dipankar Saharia, Senior Director & Senior Fellow, TERI, delivering the vote of thanks. He expressed heartfelt gratitude to the distinguished personalities and stressed on the programme’s role in creating a conductive learning environment for young individuals. Dr Saharia also highlighted how the initiative successfully celebrated India & unique culture through inspirational messages
and patriotic displays in various forms, while emphasizing the crucial message of sustainability and the circular economy.
Soumya Ranjan Samal from Utkal University of Culture, Bhubaneswar secured the first prize, followed by Khushboo from Delhi in the second number and Paarth Aggarwal from Ajmer bagged the third prize. Smt Meenakashi Lekhi, Hon’ble Minister of State for External Affairs & Culture, Ministry of Culture, Government of India, the chief guest on the occasion, handed over the prizes to the winners.
The inaugural session was followed by a panel discussion on ‘Celebrating Positivity and Patriotism to Promote Culture’ , featuring Mr Ripudaman Bevli, Plogging Ambassador of India, Dr Kinkini Dasgupta Misra, Scientist F, Department of Science and Technology, Government of India and Youth Environmentalist, Mr Abhiir Bhalla The panel discussion focused on key points, highlighting youth engagement in various realms such as environmental responsibility, community engagement, fitness, science and research, nation-building, and action. The speakers also deliberated on how the youth play a significant role in strengthening positivity and patriotism to promote India’s diverse culture.