CM Saini: Empowered youth key to developed India vision

Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini on Friday said a developed India is one that progresses economically, socially, and technologically, with equitable access to education, healthcare, employment, and high living standards.

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Speaking at a plenary session on “Utilising Demographic Dividend and Strategies for Employment” during the Vision 2047: Prosperous and Great India international conference in New Delhi, Saini said, “A developed India means an economy driven by innovation, equality, and opportunity. This vision reflects the collective resolve of 140 crore citizens.”

The three-day event, hosted at the Indian Agricultural Research Centre, is jointly organised by Kurukshetra University and Swadeshi Shodh Sansthan.

Stressing the importance of harnessing the youth demographic, Saini said, “In Haryana, where 65% of the population is under 35, we are promoting quality education, entrepreneurship, and skill development to empower youth as self-reliant job creators.” He highlighted Haryana’s Skill University in Palwal as a key initiative preparing youth for the competitive economy.

The CM also pointed to Haryana’s efforts across sectors — startups, innovation, women empowerment, environment, and technology—backed by stakeholder-informed budgeting. “Haryana, known for its agricultural base, is also embracing innovation in farming,” he added.

Rajya Sabha MP Vikramjit Sahney urged youth to explore agriculture’s untapped employment potential, despite waning interest in the sector. Deepak Sharma of Swadeshi Jagran Manch compared India and China’s economic trajectories, noting: “In 1980, India’s per capita GDP was $580, China’s was $307. China surged ahead with structured development. India has been catching up since 2014.”

Kurukshetra University Vice-Chancellor Prof Som Nath Sachdeva said self-employment offers 62% of jobs, with skill development crucial for bridging workforce gaps. “We are the first university to fully implement the NEP 2020,” he noted.