Prof Glenn T Thong addresses the gathering during the Ashtalakshmi Darshan Youth Exchange Programme held at Nagaland University, Medziphema Campus on February 7.
Medziphema, February 7 (MExN): Prof Glenn T Thong delivered a special lecture at Nagaland University’s Medziphema Campus on Thursday as part of the Ashtalakshmi Darshan Youth Exchange Programme.
As part of the programme, 44 delegates from Ladakh and Kerala are being hosted at the Medziphema Campus of Nagaland University from February 1 to 14.
Prof Thong delivered a lecture on “Inspiring Youth for the Journey Towards Viksit Bharat 2047,” during which he said that the youth exchange programme provides first-hand exposure to the region’s rich traditions, languages and development initiatives through academic sessions, workshops, cultural exchanges and field visits.
He said the programme aligns with the national vision of Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat (One India, Great India) and contributes towards achieving the goal of Viksit Bharat (Developed India).
Quoting the Hon’ble President of India, Prof Thong recalled her remarks made during the convocation of Guru Nanak Dev University, Amritsar, where she had said that the next two decades are crucial for achieving a Viksit Bharat and that the future of India lies in the hands of the youth.
Prof Thong asserted that to realise these goals, the youth must develop a scientific temper, adopt a responsible attitude and selflessly serve to strengthen the nation. He reminded the students of the great responsibilities they carry and encouraged them to give back to society by uplifting the underprivileged and adhering to moral values by cultivating integrity and honesty.
He also spoke about the Northeastern states of India, highlighting their rich history, diverse languages, traditions, traditional clothing such as handlooms, and agricultural practices including terraced farming. He noted that several indigenous communities in the region have preserved their way of life despite rapid modernisation in other parts of the country.
Prof Thong said students are ambassadors of the goal of Viksit Bharat 2047 and that the government is committed to engaging youth ambassadors to bridge gaps, share positive experiences and counter misconceptions about the Northeast and its diversity in order to strengthen national unity.
He encouraged the students to believe in themselves, understand their strengths and remain resilient, stating that obstacles should be seen as opportunities for growth.
The programme concluded with a vote of thanks proposed by Dr S Pavan, Assistant Professor, Department of Entomology, School of Agricultural Sciences, Medziphema Campus.
It may be stated that Prof G T Thong superannuated from the Department of Geology, Nagaland University, in 2025 after making significant contributions to the academic community and providing visionary leadership at the university. He had also served as Pro Vice-Chancellor of the Kohima Campus.