Bihar: IIM Bodh Gaya Sets the Stage for Cultural Unity in Yuva Sangam Phase-3 Finale

PATNA – The first phase of Yuva Sangam Phase-3, a part of the Ek Bharat Shrestha Bharat program by the Government of India, concluded with the establishment of transformative relationships between nodal institutions in Bihar and Gujarat. This cultural exchange celebrated diversity and national unity, showcasing the success of IIM Bodh Gaya in bidding farewell to 42 students and 4 professors from Gujarat’s nodal institute, IIIT Surat, with remarkable hospitality.

Yuva Sangam Phase-3, an initiative under Ek Bharat Shrestha Bharat, focuses on organizing exposure tours to various states for youth, mainly students of higher educational institutions. IIM Bodh Gaya successfully completed this initiative, aiming to provide information on various aspects of life, development sites, recent achievements, and promote youth connectivity in the host state.

The program kicked off with a grand welcome and team-building activities at Gaya station on December 16, 2023, when the representatives from Gujarat arrived. The days that followed were filled with diverse activities, including wellness-promoting yoga sessions, cultural workshops, and village visits, enhancing inter-cultural understanding. The cultural tour included heritage exploration at Bodh Gaya, a visit to Patna and Nalanda, and a thought-provoking visit to the Nalanda archaeological site, concluding with an overnight stay at the Bihar Police Academy.

Delegates expressed their sense of peace in the land of knowledge while visiting the Mahabodhi Temple and witnessed the historical richness at the Bihar Museum. An important interaction occurred between the students and the Director of Bihar Police Academy, fostering understanding between educational and law enforcement institutions.

The certificate distribution and closing ceremony marked the success of this cultural exchange on the last day. Dr. Vineeta S., Director of IIM Bodhgaya, praised the state exchange programs for enriching students’ understanding of India’s diverse cultural values. Nodal Officer, Dr. Vishal Wankhede, highlighted the potential for lasting bonds formed during this exchange, contributing to the broader objective of nation-building.

Delegates shared their joy, emphasizing the seamless integration of historical sites with state-of-the-art technology, portraying Bihar’s overall development. The program showcased Bihar’s heritage, development initiatives, and cultural richness, leaving an indelible impression on every participant.

Organized by the Government of India, Yuva Sangam Phase-3 played a crucial role in promoting cultural understanding and cooperation. Beyond geographical boundaries, this initiative provides a platform for youth to explore India’s cultural heritage, building lasting relationships between the vibrant states of Gujarat and Bihar. This contributes significantly to the broader vision of One India, Shreshtha India, celebrating unity in diversity and fostering a nation united in its diversity.