On 15 January 2025, YUVA India, in collaboration with Jeevandhara, conducted a highly impactful session at the Jeevandhara Centre, Mangirbaba Mandir, Sathe Nagar, Mankhurd (West), Mumbai. This National Youth Day celebration focused on enlightening school-going children about their rights as young citizens and empowering them with the knowledge to shape their futures. The session, held in the evening to accommodate the students’ schedules, was a remarkable step towards fostering awareness and empowerment among the youth.

A Collective Effort for Youth Empowerment

The event brought together committed representatives from both organisations. From YUVA India, Ms. Vanita Salunke and Mr. Vijay Powar spearheaded the efforts, while Mr. Taukir Khan and Ms. Jyoti Sathe from Jeevandhara played key roles in ensuring its success. The centre in-charge, teachers, and local stakeholders also actively participated, demonstrating a collaborative spirit that underscored the importance of community involvement in youth development.

Exploring Youth Rights: A Powerful Session by Ms. Vanita Salunke

The session was led by Ms. Vanita Salunke, who captivated the young audience with her insights into youth rights. She delved into various aspects of rights and responsibilities, explaining their significance in a relatable manner. Key highlights of her presentation included:

1. Right to Education: Emphasising the constitutional guarantee of free and compulsory education for children aged 6 to 14, she stressed its role in building a self-reliant and informed citizenry.
2. Right to Health: Ms. Salunke highlighted the importance of access to physical and mental health services, underlining that good health is a cornerstone of personal and societal progress.
3. Right to Employment: The speaker discussed the right to fair employment opportunities and safe working conditions, encouraging children to dream big and equip themselves with the necessary skills.
4. Right to Freedom and Expression: She illuminated the power of having a voice in society and the importance of utilising it constructively for collective betterment.
5. Right Against Discrimination: Ms. Salunke spoke passionately about the need to eliminate barriers based on caste, religion, gender, or other biases, reinforcing the principle of equality.
6. Right to Culture and Identity: Preserving one’s cultural heritage and respecting diverse traditions were also addressed, instilling a sense of pride and inclusivity.
7. Right to a Healthy Environment: Ms. Salunke reminded the children of their right to live in a clean and safe environment, linking it to global sustainability efforts.
8. Right to Justice and Participation: She encouraged the young participants to actively engage in decision-making processes that affect their lives and to seek justice whenever their rights are violated.

The Importance of Celebrating National Youth Day

National Youth Day is observed annually on 12 January to commemorate the birth anniversary of Swami Vivekananda. His teachings continue to inspire generations of young people to pursue excellence, contribute to society, and uphold moral values. The session at Jeevandhara highlighted the spirit of Swami Vivekananda’s vision, urging children to embrace knowledge, resilience, and compassion.

The significance of celebrating this day lies in recognising the youth as pivotal agents of change. Events like this session act as catalysts, encouraging young minds to realise their potential and contribute to a progressive society.

Building Awareness and Confidence

Through her engaging presentation, Ms. Salunke not only educated the children about their rights but also empowered them to exercise these rights responsibly. The interactive elements of the session—such as open discussions and Q&A rounds—ensured that the children were actively involved. This approach fostered a deeper understanding of the issues and encouraged them to voice their thoughts confidently.

Collaborative Efforts for Lasting Impact

The partnership between YUVA India and Jeevandhara was a testament to the power of collaboration in achieving meaningful outcomes. By pooling resources, expertise, and networks, the two organisations successfully reached out to the community and addressed critical issues concerning the youth.

Mr. Taukir Khan and Ms. Jyoti Sathe played instrumental roles in coordinating the event and ensuring its seamless execution. Their dedication to the cause exemplified the importance of local leadership in driving community initiatives.

A Vision for the Future

As the session concluded, it was evident that the event had left a lasting impression on the young attendees. By raising awareness about their rights and responsibilities, the programme aimed to instil a sense of empowerment and purpose. The children departed with a renewed understanding of their role in shaping a better tomorrow, not just for themselves but for society as a whole.

The Road Ahead

National Youth Day is a reminder that investing in the youth is an investment in the nation’s future. Empowering young individuals with the knowledge of their rights and the means to exercise them responsibly can create a ripple effect of positive change. Initiatives like the YUVA India and Jeevandhara collaboration are shining examples of how collective action can address pressing issues and inspire the next generation.

As we reflect on the success of this event, let it serve as a call to action for all stakeholders—educators, policymakers, organisations, and community members. Together, we can create an environment where every child is aware of their rights, feels valued, and is equipped to lead a life of dignity and purpose.

By embracing the spirit of National Youth Day, we take one step closer to building a society that truly values its young citizens as the architects of its destiny.