Chandigarh, January 7, 2026: A ceremonial send-off for the Chandigarh and Punjab contingents heading to the 29th National Youth Festival (NYF) 2026 / Viksit Bharat Young Leaders Dialogue (VBYLD) was organised at Guru Nanak Dev Auditorium by Raj Bhavan, and managed by the Sports Department, Chandigarh Administration.
The ceremony was graced by Shri Gulab Chand Kataria, Hon’ble Administrator of Chandigarh and Governor of Punjab, who extended his best wishes to the young participants for the prestigious national event to be held at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi, from January 9 to 12, 2026.
Senior dignitaries present on the occasion included Shri Saravjit Singh, IAS, Special Chief Secretary, Sports & Youth Welfare Department, Punjab; Shri Mandip Singh Brar, IAS, Home Secretary, Chandigarh Administration; Ms Prerna Puri, IAS, Secretary, Sports & Education, Chandigarh Administration; and Shri Sorabh Kumar Arora, PCS, Director Sports, Chandigarh Administration.
The programme began with the National Anthem sung by the Folk Song participants of the Chandigarh contingent, followed by poetry recitation and declamation performances by selected participants, creating a dignified and patriotic atmosphere.
Addressing the gathering, the Hon’ble Administrator encouraged the youth to perform with confidence, discipline and responsibility, reminding them that they are ambassadors of their respective States and Union Territory. He highlighted the importance of the National Youth Festival—now restructured as the Viksit Bharat Young Leaders Dialogue—in line with the vision of Viksit Bharat @2047.
The Chandigarh contingent, with a total strength of 60 members, includes 55 participants—28 in the Cultural Track and 27 in the Challenge Track (VBYLD)—along with 5 officials. They will compete in Group Folk Song, Group Folk Dance, Painting, Declamation, Poetry Writing, and participate in leadership dialogue sessions.
The Punjab contingent, comprising 85 members, will also take part in various cultural events and leadership activities at the national level.
As a gesture of encouragement and hospitality, lunch was hosted for both contingents by the Hon’ble Governor.
The 29th National Youth Festival 2026 will serve as a national मंच to showcase youth talent, creativity, leadership and innovation, while promoting national integration, cultural exchange and youth empowerment.
The Sports Department, Chandigarh Administration, conveyed its best wishes for a safe journey and successful participation of both contingents at the festival.
