As we are putting all our efforts to come out of the pandemic-induced year that was 2020 , we are reminded of the thundering words of Swami Vivekananda, ‘Arise, awake, and stop not till the goal is reached’. These very words were motivating for many of us as we faced many challenges throughout the tempestuous 2020. The vision espoused by Swami Vivekananda is now becoming more mainstream.

Swamiji was clear that India’s progress is entwined with its attachment to our civilizational ethos grounded in spiritualism. Swami Vivekananda also equated spiritual quest with national service when he declared that “The poor, the illiterate, the ignorant, the afflicted…let these be your God, know that service to these alone is the highest religion.”  For many of us, these words of Swamiji could and should serve as an inspiration. 

The views and principles of Swami Vivekananda will continue to motivate all Indians, particularly our youth. It is the youth of this country that can take nourishment from the vision and life story of Swami Vivekananda, using it to climb the ladders of success in their lives; and we saw a glimpse of it during these testing times. Since the pandemic started up till now, our youngsters have taken the lead in helping those in need and doing all that is possible to ensure that we come out of this stronger and more confident. Whether it was in putting their innovative minds to use in coming up with life-saving inventions or putting themselves on the frontlines as covid warriors, we are grateful to the youngsters for being the beacon of hope. 

As we enter a new decade, it will not be wrong to say that the onus is on the youth to guide the nation through the new era. Since taking office it has been my aim to create conditions that will enable the youth of our state to do just that. Whether it is bringing changes to the education sector or ensuring improvement in the field of skill development like setting up Vivekananda youth empowerment centres in every school and college, the focus has been to ensure the empowerment of our youngsters. In this noble pursuit I take inspiration from the courageous leadership of our respected PM Shri Narendra Modi ji and our beloved CM Shri BS Yeddiyurappa ji, both of whom are putting the vision of Swami Vivekananda to reality. It will not be an exaggeration to say that the motivation of the youth combined with the vision of Swami Vivekananda will lead to the creation of a truly Atma  Nirbhar Bharat.