Governor praises Kerala’s development achievements before Yuva Sangam delegates

Kerala Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar with Yuva Sangam delegation on 1 June. Photo credit: SPECIAL ARRANGEMENT

Kerala Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar on Monday (June 1) interacted with a Yuva Sangam delegation from the Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Jammu, currently visiting Kerala, at the IIM Kozhikode campus and emphasized the importance of youth-led cultural exchange in strengthening national integration and promoting a deeper understanding of India’s diversity.

Addressing a delegation of 33 students from Jammu, Kashmir and Ladakh, the Governor highlighted the importance of the Union Government’s Yuva Sangam initiative under the Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat program and described it as a strong platform for building emotional bonds among the youth of the country. “Whenever India unites, India progresses. That is the essence of Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat,” Mr. Arlekar said.

He noted that programs like the Yuva Sangam provide an invaluable opportunity for young citizens to learn from the strengths, successes and best practices of different states and apply these lessons in their own regions, however small the beginning may be. The governor urged the delegates to look beyond tourism and experience the culture, traditions, history and developmental achievements of the states they visit. He encouraged participants to absorb the values ​​and practices they encounter during the exchange and become catalysts for positive change upon returning home.

Taking note of Kerala’s achievements, Mr. Arlekar lauded the state for its achievements in literacy, healthcare, social development and preservation of cultural heritage. Describing Kerala as a state that would truly live up to its reputation as God’s Own Country, he noted that despite its geographical size, Kerala has emerged as a role model for other states in several developmental indicators.

The Governor also highlighted Kerala’s efforts to balance economic growth with environmental protection. He emphasized the importance of maintaining an ecological balance during development and praised the state for preserving its cultural and natural heritage even with significant tourism. Sustainable growth, he noted, should remain a priority for every state in the country.

Published – 01 Jun 2026 21:10 IST