Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini on Saturday emphasized his government's unwavering focus on empowering the state's young population. Speaking at an inspiring interaction program in Panchkula, he flagged off the Haryana delegation to the prestigious 29th National Youth Festival-2026 and detailed a series of initiatives aimed at youth development.
Flagging Off Haryana's Pride for National Youth Festival
The Chief Minister, serving as the chief guest at the Prernadaayi Samvad Karyakram, boosted the morale of the 64 young participants selected to represent Haryana. After interacting with them and posing for a group photograph, he formally flagged off the delegation. The team will participate in the festival at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi, from January 9 to January 12, 2026. Their events will include group dance, debate, painting, Young Leaders' Dialogue, Hack for Social Cause, and Design for Viksit Bharat.
Addressing the youth, Saini imbued the moment with deeper meaning. He stated that the flag they carry is not just cloth but a symbol of ancestral values, brave culture, and the indomitable courage of the young. He reminded them that it also carries the trust of the entire state. The Chief Minister linked the event to National Youth Day, celebrated on the birth anniversary of Swami Vivekananda, whom he praised for his perpetually youthful thinking and actions.
From Job Promises to Policy: A Decade of Youth-Centric Work
Saini asserted that both the central and state governments have achieved in the past decade what previous administrations could not in several decades. He highlighted Haryana's consistent efforts to recognize and nurture young talent, which culminated in a comprehensive youth policy.
He specifically recalled a key election promise. "I promised that the light of government employment would reach 24,000 homes," Saini said, treating it as a sacred commitment. True to his word, on October 17, 2024, alongside the formation of the new Cabinet, appointment letters for Group C posts were handed over to 24,000 youth.
Cracking Down on Fraud and Building Global Skills
The Chief Minister expressed serious concern over youths risking their lives by going abroad through illegal means, often called the "donkey route." To combat fraud by illegal agents, his government passed a historic Bill in the Legislative Assembly on March 26, 2025, which has now been enacted into law.
This new law aims to ensure transparency in the operations of travel agents and hold those involved in fraudulent practices accountable. "The government wants youth to go abroad, but with dignity, safety, and security," Saini emphasized. Supporting this vision, the state has provided skill training to 1.14 lakh young people to help them establish themselves in global markets.
The event was also attended by Minister of State for Youth Empowerment and Entrepreneurship, Gaurav Gautam, underscoring the government's collective focus on this agenda.
