Shillong, October 16: The Viksit Bharat Young Leaders Dialogue (VBYLD) 2026 – Young Professionals (YP) Roundtable was successfully organised at St. Anthony’s College, Shillong, on October 14, under the theme “Aatmanirbhar Bharat: Make in India, Make for the World.”
The programme was organised by Mera Yuva Bharat (MY Bharat) under the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, in collaboration with the Department of Fishery Science, St. Anthony’s College.
The event brought together young professionals, students and experts to discuss India’s vision of becoming a self-reliant nation through innovation, entrepreneurship, technological advancement and sustainable development.
Among the speakers were Dr. Papiya Dutta, Dean, School of Agriculture and Rural Development, University of Science and Technology Meghalaya (USTM); AvneR Pariat; Lamphrang Khyrim; and Pdiang Karmalki, who participated as a representative of the Prime Minister.
The discussions focused on the concept of Aatmanirbhar Bharat, or Self-Reliant India, which seeks to strengthen domestic production, promote indigenous innovation and reduce excessive dependence on foreign technologies and resources.
Speakers emphasised the importance of encouraging young people to become innovators, manufacturers and entrepreneurs rather than limiting their aspirations to conventional employment opportunities.
They highlighted the role of youth-led enterprises in strengthening India’s competitiveness in international markets while creating employment and economic opportunities within the country.
Particular attention was given to the potential of Northeast India, where improved infrastructure and digital connectivity could support emerging industries and sustainable economic activities.
The speakers stressed the need to strengthen infrastructure and digital facilities to promote eco-tourism, organic farming and agriculture-based startups across the northeastern region.
They also highlighted the importance of encouraging young entrepreneurs to explore opportunities that make use of the region’s natural resources and local strengths while maintaining environmental sustainability.
Industry experts urged young people to adopt a more entrepreneurial mindset, develop practical skills and identify opportunities aligned with their interests and abilities.
The roundtable served as a platform for exchanging ideas on how innovation, entrepreneurship and sustainable development can contribute to India’s long-term economic growth.
The programme concluded with an emphasis on empowering young professionals to play an active role in building a self-reliant and globally competitive India.
