Yuva Sangam: Student Delegation from Odisha Meets President Droupadi Murmu

The seventh phase of 'Yuva Sangam' is being organized under the 'Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat' program, operated by the Department of Higher Education of the Ministry of Education, Government of India. Under this initiative, a student delegation from Odisha, led by the Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Sambalpur, arrived in Himachal Pradesh on October 5, 2026. The National Institute of Technology (NIT) Hamirpur is hosting the delegation during this visit.

During their trip, the student delegation met with the Chief Minister of Himachal Pradesh, Mr. Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, on October 6, 2026, who welcomed and interacted with the representatives. Subsequently, on October 7, 2026, the delegation met with the President of India, Smt. Droupadi Murmu. This marked the first time in the history of Yuva Sangam that representatives were given the opportunity to interact with the President. During the meeting, the President shared her views on India's diversity and the importance of national unity.

The primary objective of this cultural exchange between Odisha and Himachal Pradesh under the seventh phase of Yuva Sangam is to connect young Indians with communities outside their home states and increase awareness of the country's shared cultural heritage. Through this program, participants are gaining an understanding of the traditions, lifestyles, and academic landscapes of different states, thereby strengthening national integration and the vision of 'Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat'.

This initiative by the Ministry of Education is being implemented through 20 pairs of states and higher education institutions. It provides youth with the opportunity to experience the developmental achievements and cultural heritage of various states and Union Territories.