Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has urged young people to seek knowledge, challenge wrongdoing through lawful channels, and work for change within democratic systems. Speaking at a convocation ceremony of Babasaheb Bhimrao Ambedkar University in Lucknow on 29 August 2026, Singh set out the government’s vision for how India’s youth should contribute to building a developed nation by 2047.
What the Defence Minister said
Singh linked his message to Dr Ambedkar’s philosophy of “Educate, Agitate and Organise”, interpreting it to mean acquiring education, questioning injustice through constitutional methods rather than violence, and bringing about change through democratic processes. He stressed that Dr Ambedkar himself warned against resorting to violence or breaking constitutional norms when democratic avenues exist, calling such approaches a “grammar of anarchy”.
The Minister called on universities to develop students who embody ideals of justice, equality, liberty and fraternity. He said true education must teach people to think critically, solve problems, and use knowledge for society’s benefit while maintaining ethical values.
Singh highlighted that youth should become job creators, problem-solvers and agents of positive change working as “Team India” toward the goal of Viksit Bharat. He stressed the value of continuous learning, adaptability, resilience and hard work in a rapidly changing world.
On national achievements, Singh noted progress in India’s space sector, education and research spending which has doubled over 12 years, the National Education Policy introduced after 34 years, and India’s emergence as the world’s third-largest start-up ecosystem. He said the government will continue building an environment where youth can innovate and develop solutions.
Singh also emphasised that national development cannot be measured by economic strength alone. Cultural confidence and pride in India’s civilisation, heritage and identity are equally important for making India great, he said.
What this means for you
If you are a student or young person, the message is that working within democratic and legal systems to address social problems is the approved path. The government is signalling its support for education, innovation and entrepreneurship among youth, while discouraging any form of unconstitutional or violent approaches to change.