JAIPUR: “Democracy is not merely a modern system of governance but a way of life deeply rooted in India’s civilizational ethos,” said Lieutenant Governor of Ladakh, Kavinder Gupta, while addressing the India Youth Parliament held in Jaipur on the occasion of Democracy Day.
Tracing references of democratic thought to Vedic literature and ancient texts, the Lt Governor noted that great thinkers like Chanakya laid the foundations of political ethics and governance in India.
Kavinder Gupta, who was the Chief Guest, highlighted that under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi since 2014, Indian democracy has gained new strength and inclusivity. With the mantra of “Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas, and Sabka Prayas”, democracy has truly reached the grassroots. Initiatives such as Jan Dhan Yojana, Digital India, and Direct Benefit Transfer were cited as examples of transparency, accountability, and empowerment of women, youth, and rural communities.
“Today, India’s democracy is more inclusive, participatory, and result-oriented than ever before, evolving into a vibrant people’s movement,” the Lt Governor said.
He urged the youth to actively participate in democratic processes—from Panchayats to Parliament—and to contribute responsibly to nation-building. The true spirit of democracy, he stressed, lies in dialogue, cooperation, and civic responsibility. Young citizens, he added, must go beyond applause by offering constructive suggestions and engaging in areas like cleanliness, environment, education, and technology to strengthen democracy further.
The Lt Governor also lauded Ashutosh Joshi, National Convenor of the Indian Youth Parliament, for providing a meaningful platform for young voices to engage in dialogue and uphold democratic values.
Concluding his address, Kavinder Gupta called upon the younger generation to uphold the values of unity, harmony, and national integration, remarking that the true strength of India’s democracy lies in the active role played by its youth.
