Jammu, Aug 27: Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology and Earth Sciences and MoS in the PMO, Dr Jitendra Singh, on Thursday said the Government has made a conscious effort to change the traditional “Sarkari Naukri” mindset among youth by creating alternative avenues for employment and livelihood.
Addressing the National Sports Day 2026 celebrations at the Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Jammu, Singh said initiatives such as StartUp India, MUDRA Yojana, SVANidhi and Vishwakarma Yojana have helped young people pursue entrepreneurship and self-employment.
He said Prime Minister Narendra Modi had launched the StartUp India initiative at a time when the startup culture was still emerging in the country. India now has around 2.40 lakh recognised startups and ranks third globally, he added.
Singh was speaking at ‘Khelo India Samvad – Khel Ki Baat PM Ke Saath’, organised by Mera Yuva Bharat (MY Bharat) under the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports. Prime Minister Modi addressed participating youth through video conferencing as part of the nationwide programme.
Highlighting the role of youth in nation-building, Singh said the country has witnessed significant changes over the past decade, with greater opportunities emerging in sports, entrepreneurship, innovation and education.
He stressed the importance of balanced development during student life, saying sports and physical fitness help build a healthy, disciplined and confident generation.
Singh also highlighted India's growing presence in research and innovation. He said Indian researchers are increasingly contributing to global knowledge and noted the country's expanding footprint in scientific publications and patents.
On financial inclusion, he said the Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojana has enabled aspiring entrepreneurs to access loans and that nearly ₹38 lakh crore has been disbursed under the scheme, with women accounting for around 60 per cent of beneficiaries.
Calling upon young people to utilise the opportunities available to them, Singh urged them to contribute towards the vision of a developed India by 2047.
He also praised the Khelo India initiative for inspiring the country's youth and appreciated IIM Jammu for its achievements since its establishment.
Jammu MP Jugal Kishore Sharma also addressed the gathering and highlighted the importance of sports in developing discipline, teamwork and perseverance among young people. He said sports would play an important role in achieving the vision of a youth-led Viksit Bharat.
The programme featured a Yuva Samvaad, allowing young participants to share their ideas, aspirations and perspectives. Youth also interacted with sportspersons and other distinguished participants.
MLA Jammu Yudvir Sethi, IIM Jammu Director Prof B S Sahay and other dignitaries were present at the event.
