Bhubaneswar: A 50-member student delegation from Himachal Pradesh, visiting Odisha from 13 to 18 October 2026 under Yuva Sangam Phase VII of the Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat programme, interacted with the Minister, Industries, Skill Development & Technical Education, Government of Odisha Sampad Chandra Swain.
Welcoming the delegates, the Minister said that Yuva Sangam provides young people with a unique opportunity to step beyond their familiar surroundings, experience India’s diversity first-hand, exchange ideas and build lasting relationships across States.
He observed that the true value of such an exchange goes beyond visiting new places. It lies in meeting people, understanding different perspectives and developing the openness and adaptability required to work across cultures and geographies. Such interactions among young people from different States strengthen mutual understanding and give practical expression to the vision of Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat.
Highlighting the rapidly changing world of work, the Minister said that Artificial Intelligence, advanced manufacturing, clean energy and digital technologies are creating new possibilities for young people. In this changing environment, the ability to continuously learn, adapt and innovate will be critical for future success.
Drawing upon his experience as Industries Minister, he underlined the strong connection between industrial growth and human capital. While investment in industries, infrastructure and technology is essential for economic growth, investment in talented, skilled and motivated young people is equally critical to building a prosperous future.
The Minister encouraged the delegates to forge friendships with their counterparts in Odisha and remain connected beyond the programme. He urged them to remain curious, embrace new experiences and prepare themselves not merely to seek opportunities, but to create opportunities and emerge as innovators, entrepreneurs and job creators.
The Yuva Sangam Programme, organised by the Ministry of Education, Government of India under the Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat (EBSB) initiative, seeks to strengthen people-to-people connections and foster greater understanding among the youth of different States. Through exposure visits, participants experience the host State’s culture and way of life, natural landscape, development journey, achievements and youth engagement.
Under Phase VII, the delegation from Himachal Pradesh is visiting Odisha from 13 to 18 October 2026, with IIM Sambalpur designated as the Nodal Institute for Odisha. The visit provides the young delegates an immersive opportunity to understand Odisha, interact with its people and institutions, and experience its developmental and cultural landscape.
On the occasion, Director IIM Sambalpur, Commissioner-cum-Secretary, Skill Development & Technical Education and other senior officials were present.
