As India sets its sights on becoming a fully developed nation, the country's youth emerge as pivotal players in this transformative journey. With nearly half of its population under the age of 30, India’s demographic advantage could very well be its ticket to achieving the ambitious vision of Viksit Bharat 2047. Central to this vision is the concept of Panch Pran—five key pledges introduced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, aimed at guiding India’s development and securing its future. For young citizens, these pledges serve as a roadmap, providing a sense of purpose, direction, and ownership in the nation’s collective journey toward progress.
Understanding Panch Pran: A National Call to Action
The Panch Pran framework is more than just a set of lofty ideals; it is a strategic, action-oriented guide for India's growth over the next few decades. The five vows are:
- Striving to make India a fully developed nation
- Shaking off the remnants of colonial mindsets
- Embracing and taking pride in our diverse heritage
- Strengthening national unity and solidarity
- Performing civic duties with a sense of accountability and responsibility
These principles collectively address the cultural, economic, and social aspects of national progress, ensuring that India’s growth is both inclusive and sustainable. For India’s youth, the Panch Pran offers a foundation upon which they can build their contribution to the nation’s future.
The Youth as Agents of Transformation
India’s youth, equipped with creativity, ambition, and technological savvy, are perfectly positioned to lead the country’s development efforts. The Panch Pran provides a moral and practical compass that can guide young people as they innovate and push boundaries in fields like technology, manufacturing, education, and healthcare—areas crucial to India’s growth. The first pledge, to strive for a developed India, calls on the youth to think beyond the status quo, imagining and creating new industries and solutions that will propel the nation into the future. Young entrepreneurs, scientists, and technologists have the power to introduce transformative change, making this vision of a developed India more achievable than ever.
In a similar vein, the second vow—breaking free from the colonial mindset—urges young Indians to foster a sense of intellectual and cultural independence. This doesn’t just mean rejecting old ideas but also embracing India’s own rich traditions, while keeping pace with global advancements. Young Indians must take pride in their identity and heritage while being equally committed to driving innovation and development.
Unity and Responsibility as Key Drivers
Among the Panch Pran, the emphasis on national unity stands out as particularly important in a country as diverse as India. The youth, who belong to varied backgrounds, have the unique opportunity to foster a deeper sense of togetherness by transcending differences based on region, language, or religion. National unity will be the cornerstone of India’s journey toward Viksit Bharat 2047, and young people, with their capacity to collaborate and think inclusively, hold the key to overcoming division and fostering harmony.
The fifth principle, centered around responsible citizenship, is another critical aspect that young Indians must embrace. As the nation looks ahead, the youth must cultivate an attitude of civic duty and environmental consciousness, engaging actively in community development and governance. By participating in policy discussions, volunteering in social initiatives, and contributing to sustainable practices, the youth can help shape a future that is equitable, inclusive, and responsive to the needs of all citizens.
Conclusion
The path to Viksit Bharat 2047 will be carved by those who have the vision, energy, and determination to lead the way—qualities that India's youth possess in abundance. By adopting the principles of Panch Pran in their personal and collective endeavors, young citizens can help transform India into a developed nation. As they step into roles of leadership and responsibility, they will be the driving force behind India’s ascent on the global stage. The future is in their hands, and with the right mindset and actions, the dream of Viksit Bharat is not only attainable but inevitable.
T. Mohammed Shebeen
Currently pursuing a full-time PhD in Commerce at the University of Madras. With a focus on Industry 4.0 technologies and their impact on MSMEs, particularly in Kerala's jewelry industry, Mohammed explores the intersection of smart manufacturing and workforce competitiveness.