PM Modi calls for youth empowerment and cultural pride at Chinmaya Mission sammelan

Prime Minister Narendra Modi called for youth empowerment and the preservation of India's cultural heritage on Friday while inaugurating the Chinmaya Amrit Mahotsav Global Sammelan at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi.

Speaking to an international audience at the three-day gathering marking 75 years of the Chinmaya Mission, the Prime Minister linked the nation's goal of becoming a developed country by 2047 to the mission's upcoming centenary. He urged spiritual and cultural organisations across the country to play an active role in building public awareness and fostering social unity.

Youth power and educational reforms

Highlighting the central role of young people in shaping national progress, Modi commended a recent youth outreach drive in which volunteers covered nearly 40,000 kilometres over 300 days, connecting with more than 100,000 individuals.

He praised the Chinmaya Mission for running over 100 educational institutions that merge modern scientific education with Indian values. Modi noted that this approach aligns with the National Education Policy, which seeks to integrate traditional knowledge systems, mother-tongue instruction, and advanced technological learning.

Restoring heritage and global reach

Turning to India's civilisational heritage, Modi stated that the country has reclaimed more than 650 stolen ancient artefacts over the past 12 years as part of a sustained campaign to restore national pride.

He cited the transformation of spiritual landmarks including Kashi Vishwanath Dham, the Ram temple in Ayodhya, and pilgrimage sites at Kedarnath and Badrinath as key achievements in preserving India's identity. He also pointed to International Yoga Day as an example of how Indian spiritual traditions have gained worldwide appreciation.

Recalling his last meeting with the mission's founder, Swami Chinmayananda, in Chicago in early 1993, Modi said the spiritual leader's vision revolved around empowering youth and building a strong, self-reliant nation. He noted that the mission's global network of volunteers and teachers will continue to play an important role in India's ongoing transformation.