VIT-AP University brings together young people to discuss India’s global influence

Participants of Viksit Bharat Young Leaders Dialogue-2026 organized by VIT-AP University on Thursday. | Photo credit: Special arrangement

VIT-AP University on Thursday hosted the Viksit Bharat Young Leaders Dialogue (VBYLD) 2026 – Young Professionals Roundtable, which brought together students, young professionals and emerging leaders to discuss India’s soft power, cultural diplomacy and growing global influence.

The day-long program was themed ‘Bharat’s Soft Power: Cultural Diplomacy and Global Impact for Viksit Bharat’, with discussions focusing on how India’s cultural heritage, knowledge, diversity, innovation, entrepreneurship, technology and youth energy could strengthen the country’s global identity and contribute to the Viksit Bharat vision.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s key inputs were presented to set the context for the discussions. VIT-AP University Vice-Chancellor Arulmozhivarman said the platform was created to provide youth with an opportunity to engage with national priorities and transform their ideas into meaningful action.

He said that India’s soft power is rooted in its culture, knowledge, diversity and youthful energy and emphasized the need to nurture a generation capable of enhancing the country’s global influence.

Students interacted with a panel of industry, technology, architecture, government, culture, entrepreneurship and creative sector experts and the panel included Co-Founder, Avera AI Mobility Chandni Chandana, Head of Culture at Motorola Solutions India K. Keshava Ram, Founder of Cultural Organization Jignasa Y. Bhargav, Director, School of Planning and Architecture, Radameaway, Former Director of SirSPA School, Vijash Radameaway, Director of Language and Culture, Government of Andhra Pradesh Vizaibhaskar, Executive Director and Co-Founder Champions Group Hemamalini Nidamanuri, Founder, SM Semicon Siva Makutam, Principal Consultant, Ministry of Commerce, Government of India Megha Chawla and Bharatanatyam Artist Mythri Rao, .

The panelists shared their experiences of using Indian culture, traditional arts, technology, innovation, entrepreneurship and contemporary ideas to enhance the country’s soft power and international standing. The Young Professionals Roundtable featured panel discussions, participant interventions and open floor interactions. Students and young professionals raised questions and exchanged views with panelists on the opportunities and challenges associated with India’s growing global influence.

University Registrar M. Jagadish Chandra and Deputy Director Student Welfare Khadeer Pasha were also present.

Published – 10 Sep 2026 22:59 IST