The Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports will host the third Central Asian Youth Delegation to India from March 22 to 28, as part of the International Youth Exchange Programme (IYEP). This initiative aims to foster youth collaboration, promote cultural exchange, and strengthen diplomatic ties between India and the five Central Asian nations: Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan.
The youth exchange program is in line with the vision articulated during the India-Central Asia Summit in January 2022, when Prime Minister Narendra Modi proposed an annual youth exchange initiative to enhance mutual understanding and cooperation among young leaders from the region. The delegation, consisting of 100 members, will engage in a variety of activities that include exploring India’s rich historical, educational, and cultural landmarks. The participants will also have opportunities to interact with local youth leaders and key stakeholders, further building bridges between the nations.
During their visit, the delegation will be immersed in India’s cultural and heritage legacy with visits to iconic sites like the Taj Mahal, Agra Fort, Humayun’s Tomb, and various heritage landmarks in Goa. These experiences will provide them with a deeper understanding of India’s architectural grandeur and historical significance.
The delegation will also engage in academic and economic exchanges, interacting with students and faculty at IIT Delhi, one of India’s premier institutions, and visiting the Goa Chamber of Commerce & Industry (GCCI) and the Goa Institute of Management. These interactions are aimed at showcasing India’s advancements in technology, research, and entrepreneurship, providing delegates with valuable insights into India’s growing role in the global economy.
An essential part of the program will involve youth networking and volunteerism. The delegation will meet with MY Bharat volunteers to discuss youth empowerment, leadership, and innovation, providing them with an opportunity to share ideas and best practices to inspire youth engagement back home.
High-level diplomatic interactions are also part of the visit, with the delegation scheduled to meet the External Affairs Minister, S. Jaishankar, Chief Minister of Goa, Pramod Sawant and the Governor of Goa, P.S. Sreedharan Pillai. These meetings will emphasize the importance of youth diplomacy and underscore the need for strengthened international cooperation.
