Ritik Kumar · September 30, 2025 
New Delhi: On January 12, 2025, India will celebrate National Youth Day, marking the 162nd birth anniversary of Swami Vivekananda. The University Grants Commission (UGC) and institutions nationwide are preparing diverse programs to honor his vision and inspire the youth of today.
The Significance of National Youth Day
The Government of India declared January 12 as National Youth Day in 1984, and the first celebration took place in 1985. The day salutes the ideals and philosophy of Swami Vivekananda, who was born in 1863. He championed self-belief, service, and the limitless potential of young people in shaping the nation. National Youth Day encourages leadership, discipline, and unity, values he strongly promoted.
How Institutions Celebrate
Schools, colleges, and universities plan to host motivational talks, cultural events, seminars, essay competitions, quizzes, yoga sessions, and exhibitions. These activities reflect Swami Vivekananda’s teachings and impact. The UGC has urged institutions to involve students in social service, skill development, and nation-building drives during the celebrations.
2025 Theme: “Celebrating the Power of Youth”
The 2025 theme, “Celebrating the Power of Youth,” highlights the need to empower young citizens. It encourages them to harness their strengths for national prosperity and progress. Alongside this, the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports will host the annual National Youth Festival from January 12 to 16. The festival will showcase talent and foster national integration among diverse youth communities.
Swami Vivekananda: An Eternal Inspiration
Swami Vivekananda lived a life of fearless pursuit of knowledge, passionate nationalism, and deep spirituality. His iconic address at the World’s Parliament of Religions in Chicago (1893) continues to energize generations. His timeless words—“Arise, awake, and stop not till the goal is reached”—remain a clarion call for self-awakening and service to society.
On National Youth Day 2025, the UGC invites institutions and communities to embrace Swami Vivekananda’s vision. By doing so, India’s youth can continue as steadfast torchbearers of progress, integrity, and ethical leadership for the future.
