J&K youth can be torchbearers of India's growth story in coming years: MoS
Published: Apr 10, 2026

By TIOLCorplaws News Service
NEW DELHI, APR 10, 2026: INTERACTING with a group of school children from Jammu & Kashmir, currently in Delhi, as a part of "Watan Ko Jano" itinerary, Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science & Technology; Earth Sciences and Minister of State for PMO, Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions, Department of Atomic Energy and Department of Space, Dr. Jitendra Singh yesterday said that Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, has consistently shown a high level of sensitivity towards Jammu & Kashmir. He recalled that Modi had spent his first Diwali as Prime Minister with flood victims in the Kashmir Valley, reflecting his deep concern and commitment towards the people and youth of J&K.
The Minister further stated that the programme provides an important opportunity for the children to witness the development that has taken place over the past decade and to gain exposure to the country's diverse socio-cultural and developmental landscape.
Dr. Jitendra Singh was addressing a group of 251 youth and children from Jammu & Kashmir participating in the "Watan K oJano Programme 2026" during their interaction with dignitaries at the Vice-President's Enclave, New Delhi, in the august presence of Vice-President of India, C.P. Radhakrishnan, and Shri Prashant Lokhande, Additional Secretary, Department of Jammu, Kashmir & Ladakh Affairs, Ministry of Home Affairs.
Highlighting the significance of the programme, the Minister said that initiatives like Watan Ko Jano provide valuable exposure to young minds by familiarising them with the country's social and cultural diversity and strengthening their emotional connection with the nation. He noted that every year, thousands of children from Jammu & Kashmir visit different parts of the country under this initiative, gaining new experiences and broadening their perspectives.
The Union Minister emphasised that the youth are the torchbearers of the nation's future and bear a significant responsibility in shaping the vision of a developed India. He expressed confidence that the children participating in the programme will contribute meaningfully to nation-building and carry forward the spirit of unity and national integration.
Referring to the changing landscape of Jammu & Kashmir, the Minister noted that the region has witnessed improvements in multiple sectors, including education, infrastructure and overall development. He said that the youth of Jammu & Kashmir yesterday have access to greater opportunities and are excelling in fields such as civil services, higher education and corporate sectors, reflecting their growing aspirations and capabilities.
Encouraging the students, Dr. Jitendra Singh said that they have access to information, opportunities and platforms that can help them achieve their goals. He urged them to make the most of these opportunities, remain focused on their aspirations and contribute positively to society.
The Minister also highlighted that programmes like Watan Ko Jano play an important role in fostering the spirit of "Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat", enabling children to experience the diversity of the country while realising the underlying unity that binds it together.
The Watan Ko Jano Programme, organised by the Ministry of Home Affairs in coordination with various agencies, aims to provide exposure to youth and children of Jammu & Kashmir, particularly those from weaker sections, by taking them on educational and cultural visits across the country. The current group comprises 251 participants, including 87 girls and 164 boys, accompanied by coordinators and caretakers, as part of a 12-day programme from 1st April to 12th April 2026.
During their visit, the children are touring various historical places and landmarks in cities such as Lucknow and Delhi, and are also interacting with dignitaries to gain insights and inspiration.
The programme also included interaction sessions, experience sharing by students and addresses by dignitaries, providing a platform for meaningful engagement and learning.
Dr. Jitendra Singh concluded by extending his best wishes to the students and expressed hope that the experience would broaden their perspectives, inspire them to pursue their goals and instill a strong sense of responsibility towards the nation.