58 student delegates from Himachal Pradesh visited Puducherry from June 8 to 13, 2026 as part of the Yuva Sangam Phase VI programme under the Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat initiative.
Hosted by NIT Puducherry, the delegation embarked on an enriching journey of cultural exchange and experiential learning. The visit also facilitated meaningful cultural exchanges between the participants and local communities, enabling them to develop a deeper appreciation of Puducherry’s linguistic, cultural and social diversity.
A key highlight of the visit was the interaction of the delegation with the Lieutenant Governor of Puducherry, Shri K. Kailashnathan, at Lok Niwas on June 12, 2026. The discussion centred around the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047, innovation-driven growth, self-reliance, entrepreneurship and the transformative role of youth in shaping India’s future. The Lieutenant Governor encouraged the participants to harness their potential, embrace innovation and contribute actively towards building a developed and self-reliant India.
Another memorable component of the visit was the delegation’s excursion to the historic Thyagaraja Temple in Tiruvarur, one of India’s largest and most revered ancient temple complexes. The participants were captivated by the temple’s towering gopurams, intricate Chola architecture, expansive stone corridors, and the sacred Kamalalayam tank, gaining a deeper appreciation of India’s rich cultural, spiritual, and artistic heritage. The delegates also visited the Central University of Tamil Nadu (CUTN), where they explored the university’s state-of-the-art laboratories, research facilities, and academic infrastructure. The visit provided valuable insights into cutting-edge research, innovation, and higher education opportunities, offering a unique blend of cultural immersion and academic exposure that enriched their Yuva Sangam experience.
The Department of Higher Education, Ministry of Education launched Yuva Sangam Phase VI initiative under the Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat programme with the objective of fostering national integration and strengthening people-to-people connections among the youth of the country. The programme provides participants from 22 paired States and Union Territories with opportunities to engage with India’s diverse cultural traditions, educational institutions, innovation ecosystems and developmental initiatives, thereby deepening appreciation for the nation’s unity amidst diversity.
