Gangtok, December 24 (IPR): The 27th National Integration and Youth Leadership Camp was inaugurated at Chintan Bhawan, Gangtok, under the joint collaboration of the Government of Sikkim, the North Eastern Council, and the Central Calcutta Science and Culture Organisation for Youth (CCSCOY).
The camp with the theme 'Empowering Youths for Viksit Bharat' was formally inaugurated by the Chief Guest, Dr Indra Hang Subba, Member of Parliament Lok Sabha, who also hoisted the flag. The event was graced by Prof Dr Jyoti Prakash Tamang, Vice-Chancellor of Sikkim University, as the Special Guest, along with several dignitaries and participants from across the nation.
In his inaugural address, the Chief Guest emphasised the importance of national integration and youth empowerment in strengthening the nation. He commended initiatives that foster unity, discipline, and leadership among young people.
He expressed gratitude to CCSCOY for organizing the camp and highlighted its role as a platform for cultural exchange and promoting sustainable growth.
He encouraged participants to engage fully with the camp’s topics, including Space Science and Indian Space Exploration Missions, as well as Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning by National e-Governance Division (NeGD). He urged the youth to strive for excellence in their areas of interest, work diligently without wasting time, and share the ideas and laws of their states while interacting.
Further stressing on the importance of individual responsibility, urging students to focus on their studies, representatives to cooperate, and educators to contribute. He praised Sikkim’s 50 years of development as the 22nd state of India and highlighted central government schemes aimed at making the Northeast the nation’s growth engine. Additionally, he also thanked Sikkim University for its significant contribution to his life, noting that it provided a platform for learning and that interacting with students from other states helped him gain a broader perspective.
In conclusion, he emphasised that India’s unity is deeply rooted in its diverse culture. He encouraged participants to explore Sikkim and its dialects to promote greater national integration and understanding.
The event featured a vibrant band display by the Indian Army and cultural performances, including an inaugural song and dance highlighting India’s rich cultural heritage.
Welcome address was delivered by Mr Nemai Chandra Pramanik, Chief General Secretary National Integration Camp. Professor Basab Chaudhuri, former Vice-Chancellor West Bengal State University, briefed about the organisation and it’s programmes.
Further, Special guest Prof Dr Jyoti Prakash Tamang, Vice-Chancellor of Sikkim University, highlighted the significance of leadership camps like the National Integration and Youth Leadership Camp in the context of Viksit Bharat 2047, aiming to inspire young minds through science and culture. He emphasised that science has become an integral part of daily life, especially post-COVID-19, as the focus on immunity and changes in therapy have gained prominence.
Prof Dr Jyoti Prakash Tamang introduced the concept of ethno-microbiology, linking it to leadership by underscoring the need for individuals to fulfill roles as responsible family members and community contributors. He explained that the culmination of community development lies in fostering humanity, where mutual respect prevails. He urged students from classes 8–10 to seek solutions rather than focusing on demands or problems, and to develop innovative ideas that can earn societal recognition.
“Those who create something new are followed; do not duplicate,” he stated, encouraging youth aged 18–20 years to dream big and use technology, including mobile applications, to craft creative and impactful ideas.
He further emphasised that Saishik Vikas (educational development) is crucial in today’s competitive era. By enhancing education, youth can contribute to integrating nationalism and building a prosperous future for the country.
Later, a seminar on “Space Science & Indian Space Exploration Missions”, was delivered by Dr Shyam S Kundu, Head of Space and Atmospheric Science Division, North Eastern Space Applications Centre (NESAC).
Representatives from Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Tripura, Meghalaya, and Sikkim joined scientists, educators, and faculty members from various schools at the event.
The week long camp, scheduled from December 24 to 31, 2024, will include an extensive programme with training sessions on yoga, self-defense, music, and dance alongside seminars on Artificial Intelligence, Cybersecurity, and Indian Space Exploration. Cultural programme, career guidance, and activities focused on leadership development are also planned. The event emphasises national integration, skill-building, and teamwork, with key topics like the G20, Mission LiFE, and sustainable tourism being highlighted.
The camp activities will continue at Paljor Stadium, Gangtok, culminating on December 31, 2024.