Under the Youth Exchange Programme conducted by Department of Youth Affairs, nominations are sought from reputed institutions viz. IITs, IIMs, NITs through Ministry of Human Resource Development; AIIMS; Youth Organizations of Ministry viz. NSS (National Service Scheme), NYKS (Nehru Yuva Kendra Sangathan), RGNIYD (Rajiv Gandhi National Institute of Youth Development); National Youth Awardees etc. and also from other Premier Institutions concerning with the subject matter of the Programme which are further considered for various delegations.

After finalization of dates for exchange programmes with the partnering countries, the delegates visiting a particular country are finalized after shortlisting names from the nominations received, depending upon the requirement of the Programme. These names are finalized with due approval of competent authority in the Department of Youth Affairs.

Youth from India are sent to a few friendly countries and vice-versa under the “International Youth Exchange Programme” for promoting exchange of ideas, values and culture amongst the youth of different countries and also to develop International understanding. The objective of this programme is to create an International perspective in the youth and to involve them in promoting peace and understanding.

The details of funds allocated/utilised for the promotion of youth and the number of youth/students participated in such programmes during last four years are given below:

(Rs. in lakhs)

Since, the nominations are sought from different institutions / Organizations, no state-wise list of youth delegates is maintained.

This information was given by Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Youth Affairs and Sports Shri Col. Rajyavardhan Rathore Retd in a written reply to the Lok Sabha today.

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YKB/TFK