In a big move to help flood-affected regions, Union Minister Mansukh Mandaviya announced that more than 1,000 young volunteers trained by the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) will be taking part in relief and rescue operations in Punjab and Himachal Pradesh. These volunteers are part of the ‘Mera Yuva Bharat Aapda Mitras’ program, a special initiative to engage youth in disaster response.
While speaking at the MY Bharat headquarters in Delhi, Mandaviya explained that these young volunteers will work together to ensure essential supplies and services reach remote villages hit hard by floods. Many of these villages are cut off or difficult to access due to the natural calamity, making the efforts of these youth even more crucial.
Mandaviya highlighted that this initiative shows how MY Bharat has successfully mobilized Indian youth for nation-building. The young volunteers will collaborate closely with District Youth Officers and District Magistrates to provide quick and effective help to flood-affected communities.
Launched earlier this year in 2023, Mera Yuva Bharat (MY Bharat) is a unique platform that connects young people across India. It uses both online and offline methods—called a “phygital” platform—to motivate youth through volunteering, leadership programs, and experiential learning. So far, over 1.7 crore young Indians have joined the platform and actively participate in campaigns focused on road safety, voter awareness, environmental issues, and other important national causes.
In addition to disaster relief updates, the Sports Minister also launched a new mascot named “Jalveer” and the official logo for the upcoming 11th Asian Aquatics Championship, set to be held in Ahmedabad in 2025. This marks the first time the prestigious event will take place in India.
The swimming and aquatic competition is scheduled from September 28 to October 11 at the state-of-the-art Veer Savarkar Sports Complex in Ahmedabad. The venue meets Olympic standards and will host over 30 nations competing in various aquatic sports. The logo for the event features the Asiatic Lion, a species native to Gujarat, designed in a vibrant style that combines sport and Indian cultural pride. The colorful logo symbolizes India’s rich heritage and the spirit of excellence.
Overall, these exciting initiatives—from youth mobilization for disaster relief to hosting a major international sports event—highlight India’s focus on community service, sports excellence, and national pride.
