Rajnath Singh Urges Youth to Drive Change Through Constitutional Means

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh addressed the convocation ceremony of Babasaheb Bhimrao Ambedkar University in Lucknow on August 29, 2026, calling on students to be agents of positive change through democratic and constitutional means.

Drawing on Dr. B.R. Ambedkar's mantra of 'Educate, Agitate and Organise', Singh explained that agitation need not mean violence. He said true change comes from questioning injustice through constitutional avenues and uniting for democratic transformation. He recalled Ambedkar's final speech to the Constituent Assembly, which warned against what he termed the 'grammar of anarchy' when constitutional remedies exist.

Singh emphasised that education must go beyond rote learning. He said it should build thinking ability, practical skills, and a sense of responsibility toward society. Universities, he noted, should shape young minds around the ideals of justice, equality, liberty, and fraternity, while instilling values and sensitivity.

Addressing the rapidly changing world, the Minister urged students to commit to continuous learning and adaptability. He said those who keep acquiring new skills will progress fastest. He also stressed the power of collective effort, asking the youth to work as part of 'Team India' toward the goal of Viksit Bharat by 2047.

Singh highlighted the government's efforts over the past decade to turn challenges into opportunities, citing progress in semiconductor manufacturing, digital public infrastructure, and the start-up ecosystem. He pointed to India's advancements in space, including human spaceflight programmes and a planned Indian space station, with private start-ups playing a growing role.

On education and research, he noted that R&D spending has doubled in 12 years, the National Education Policy was introduced after 34 years, and India now has the world's third-largest start-up ecosystem. He assured that the government will continue fostering an environment where youth can innovate and experiment.

Concluding, Singh stressed that economic strength alone does not make a nation great; cultural self-confidence does. He urged students to take pride in India's civilisation and heritage, saying the spirit of 'Believe in India' underpins the success of 'Make in India'. Deputy Chief Minister Brajesh Pathak and university Vice-Chancellor Prof. Raj Kumar Mittal were present on the occasion.