Patna: IIT Patna hosted the Closing-cum-Felicitation Ceremony of Yuva Sangam Phase VI at its Senate Hall on May 30, marking the conclusion of a week-long cultural exchange programme organised under the Government of India’s Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat initiative.
The programme, held from May 23 to May 30, brought together around 50 participants, including students from various districts of Punjab, delegates from IIT Ropar and accompanying officials. During their visit, participants explored cultural, historical, educational, industrial and heritage sites across Bihar.
Dignitaries Attend Ceremony
The event was attended by Deepak Prakash, Minister of Panchayati Raj, Government of Bihar, as the chief guest, and Guruvindar Singh, Vice-President of the Prabandhak Committee of Takhat Sri Harmandir Ji Patna Sahib, as the guest of honour.
Also present were Prof. T. N. Singh, Director of IIT Patna; Prof. A. K. Thakur, Dean (Administration); Dr. Satendra Kumar, Nodal Officer for Yuva Sangam Phase VI; faculty members, officials, students and programme participants.
The ceremony began with the traditional lighting of the lamp and a Saraswati Vandana. IIT Patna officials felicitated the chief guest and guest of honour with shawls, mementos and saplings.
Focus on National Integration
In his welcome address, Prof. T. N. Singh spoke about the importance of aspiration, determination and decision-making in students’ lives. He said initiatives such as Yuva Sangam create opportunities for young people from different regions and backgrounds to learn from one another while strengthening national unity.
Guruvindar Singh highlighted Bihar’s significance in Sikh history and spirituality. Referring to Takhat Sri Harmandir Ji Patna Sahib, he said visits to such sites offer inspiration and help visitors gain a deeper understanding of the state’s cultural heritage.
Youth Role in Viksit Bharat Vision
Addressing the gathering, Deepak Prakash said India’s diversity remains one of its greatest strengths. He noted that the youth of Bihar and Punjab possess significant potential and can contribute to the goal of Viksit Bharat 2047 through collaboration and shared learning.
He encouraged young people to engage with different cultures and perspectives as a means of fostering national development.
Certificates and Recognition
Delegates from IIT Ropar received mementos to commemorate their participation in the programme. Certificates of participation were distributed to all delegates from Punjab.
Members of the organising team and coordinators from IIT Patna were also presented with certificates of appreciation for their role in conducting the programme successfully.
Environmental Sustainability Initiative
As part of the event, a tree plantation drive was organised to promote environmental awareness and conservation. Dignitaries planted saplings on the campus, reinforcing the programme’s focus on sustainability and environmental responsibility.
The ceremony concluded with a vote of thanks followed by the National Anthem.
