Goa, 22 May 2023

 

The Indian Institute of Technology Goa (IIT Goa) recently concluded Phase II of the Yuva Sangam program, a vibrant cultural exchange initiative implemented by the Government of India. From May 15 to 21, 2023, IIT Goa played host to a 50-member delegation from Himachal Pradesh and Ladakh, marking another significant milestone in the Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat initiative. The program aimed to facilitate interaction and foster lasting bonds between young individuals (aged 18-30) from diverse regions, enabling them to explore unique cultures and forge lifelong friendships.

IIT Goa  organized a week-long series of activities and events that showcased the best of Goa's cultural heritage and provided an enriching experience for all participants. The itinerary encompassed Goa's traditions, cuisine, history, landscape, and aligned with the key focus areas identified by the Union government: Paryatan (Tourism), Parampara (Traditions), Pragati (Development), Paraspar Sampark (People-to-people connect), and Prodyogik (Technology).

The Yuva Sangam program commenced on May 15, 2023, with the presence of Shri Govind Gaude, the Minister of Arts and Culture,Government of Goa who inaugurated the event at IIT Goa's temporary campus in Farmagudi. This marked the beginning of the program and the official departure of the Goa delegation, as young individuals from Goa embarked on their own cultural exchange journey to Himachal Pradesh.

Throughout their visit, the participants had the opportunity to explore several culturally significant historical sites, including the Shanta Durga temple, Safa Masjid, churches in Old Goa, and the iconic Aguada Fort. They also immersed themselves in the popular tourist destinations of Colva and Calangute beaches, Bigfoot Museum, Casa Alvarez, Jail Museum, and enjoyed a memorable Mandovi river cruise. The delegation's itinerary also featured visits to technical sites, highlighting Goa's technological prowess and industrial achievements, such as the Goa Shipyard, Paradeep Phosphates Ltd, the Naval Museum, and Vasco Port. Furthermore, engaging interactions with officials and dignitaries from the Goa state government provided valuable insights into the cultural, social, and developmental aspects of the host state. Notably, the young delegates had the privilege of engaging with Dr. Pramod Sawant, the Chief Minister of Goa, on May 18, 2023, and Shri. P.S. Sreedharan Pillai, the Honorable Governor of Goa, on May 19, 2023.

The grand cultural showcase held on May 20, 2023, marked the culmination of the Yuva Sangam program, where all participants united to celebrate their respective cultures. The event featured captivating performances, including traditional dances, music, and art forms from all three regions, fostering an environment of unity, harmony, and cultural exchange. Shri Subhash PhalDessai, the Minister of Social Welfare, Government of Goa, graced the occasion, extending encouragement, interactive dialogue, and felicitations to the participants. On May 22, 2023, the delegation bid a heartfelt farewell to the state.

Dr. B. K. Mishra, Director of IIT Goa, expressed immense pride in the resounding success of the Yuva Sangam program, acknowledging the platform it provided for young minds to connect, learn, and grow together. He expressed gratitude for the opportunity to host this transformative event, contributing to the vision of Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat.

 

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PIB Panaji | Gautam SK/D.Rane

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