Chancellor Shri Prabhakar Singh Calls Upon Youth to Contribute to Building a Developed India Through Innovation, Social Service and Creative Thinking
Sonadevi University, Ghatsila, organized an inspirational programme on the ‘Seva First Innovation Challenge 2026’ at the Swami Vivekananda Auditorium under the aegis of the Seva Sankalp Abhiyan. The programme aimed to familiarise young people with the power of innovation, social responsibility and their significant role in nation-building. The speakers encouraged students to identify real-world problems, develop practical solutions and utilise their talents for public service and the development of the country.
The programme was graced by the presence of Shri Lakhan Mardi, Independent Director, MRPL-ONGC, and Dr. Dineshanand Goswami, former National President of Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP), former State President of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), Jharkhand, and Professor at KMPM College. The programme was conducted by Mrs. Archana Singh, Assistant Registrar of the University.
Introducing the theme, she stated that the ‘Seva First Innovation Challenge 2026’ provides an important opportunity for young people to showcase their creative abilities, transform innovative ideas into practical solutions and address societal needs. She urged students to participate actively in this initiative.
Young People Should Connect Innovation with the Spirit of Service: Shri Lakhan Mardi
Addressing the gathering, Shri Lakhan Mardi said that the initiative, launched on September 17 to mark the birthday of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, seeks to extend the spirit of service to every section of society through innovation. Drawing inspiration from the Prime Minister’s vision of ‘Seva First’, he encouraged young people to understand their responsibilities towards society and play an active role in the country’s development.
He urged students to consider the ‘Seva First Innovation Challenge 2026’ a valuable opportunity and participate enthusiastically. He emphasised that young people possess immense potential in terms of knowledge, energy, technical understanding and fresh perspectives. By connecting these capabilities with solutions to social needs, they can bring about significant positive changes in society.
Shri Mardi explained that participants can submit innovative ideas and solutions in important areas such as agriculture, water and sanitation, health and well-being, education, technology and innovation, and environment and sustainable development. He encouraged students to develop projects that go beyond paper-based concepts and deliver practical benefits by making people’s lives easier, safer and better.
Youth Participation Will Help Realise the Vision of a Developed India: Dr. Dineshanand Goswami
Dr. Dineshanand Goswami elaborated on the historical and contemporary role of young people in nation-building. He stated that the youth have made significant contributions from India’s struggle for independence to the development of a modern and self-reliant nation. Even today, their talent, hard work, innovation and social commitment remain essential to India’s journey towards becoming a developed country.
He highlighted the development initiatives undertaken under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, including infrastructure expansion, scientific achievements, technological advancement and efforts towards self-reliance. He noted that India’s achievements in space exploration, the success of the Chandrayaan missions, and advancements in indigenous technologies and defence systems demonstrate the country’s scientific capabilities and confidence. These accomplishments, he said, inspire students to pursue careers in science, research and innovation.
Recalling India’s rich intellectual heritage, Dr. Goswami referred to Aryabhata, the ancient universities of Nalanda and Takshashila, and the contributions of eminent personalities from Indian literature and history. He stressed the importance of familiarising the younger generation with great thinkers and national figures, including Maithilisharan Gupt, whose ideas and contributions continue to inspire society. He observed that drawing inspiration from India’s history, cultural heritage and knowledge traditions enables young people to face future challenges more effectively.
Referring to the thoughts of former President and eminent scientist Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam, he described quality education, scientific temper, creativity and skill development as the foundations of a developed India. He emphasised the need to build a nation where poverty and unemployment are reduced, young people receive employment opportunities according to their qualifications and skills, and gender equality and social harmony are strengthened.
He also highlighted the importance of strengthening agriculture and the rural economy, achieving self-sufficiency in food production, improving healthcare services, promoting women’s empowerment, and ensuring good governance and transparency.
Dr. Goswami encouraged students to begin their innovation journeys through small experiments, community service and solutions to local problems. He expressed confidence that the active participation of young people would help turn the vision of a developed India into reality.
Innovation and Quality Education Will Strengthen the Nation: Vice-Chancellor
The Vice-Chancellor of the University, Professor Dr. Braj Mohan Pat Pingua, motivated students to pursue innovation, quality education and creative thinking. He emphasised the importance of channelising students’ talents towards socially beneficial purposes and encouraging ideas and projects that address contemporary societal needs and have the potential to bring about positive changes in the future.
He urged students not to limit education to academic achievements alone but to connect learning with social service, research, problem-solving and nation-building.
Students Have a Crucial Role in Building a Developed India: Chancellor Prabhakar Singh
Chancellor Shri Prabhakar Singh inspired students by stating that the responsibility of realising the dream of a developed India rests significantly on the shoulders of young people. Alongside economic progress, students must continuously develop their intellectual, educational and social capabilities to contribute to the country’s overall development.
He stated that the true purpose of education is not merely to achieve individual success but also to contribute to the progress of society and the nation. Students should move forward with a spirit of service, creative thinking and social responsibility. He emphasised the need to strengthen the rural economy, uphold family and social values, and connect education with service and development.
Shri Singh said that the vision of a developed India can be realised only when every citizen, particularly the younger generation, understands their responsibilities and works in the national interest. He called upon students to take up the ‘Seva First Innovation Challenge 2026’, develop effective and practical projects, and contribute to the country’s progress through their knowledge and talent. He also stressed the importance of strengthening the spirit of a ‘Shreshtha Bharat’ (a greater and better India) and ensuring that the benefits of development reach the last person in society.
₹2 Crore in Prize Money Offers Young People an Opportunity to Innovate
During the programme, participants were informed about the objectives, possibilities and participation opportunities associated with the ‘Seva First Innovation Challenge 2026’. The initiative provides college students, individual participants and teams with a platform to present their innovative ideas.
A total prize pool of ₹2 crore has been earmarked for the competition. Participants can propose socially
