National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval delivered a powerful message to India’s youth on Saturday, reminding them that freedom is not synonymous with unrestricted personal choice but is a responsibility earned through the sacrifices of countless freedom fighters. Addressing a gathering while accepting the Lokmanya Tilak National Award in Pune, Doval urged the younger generation to rise above personal interests and dedicate themselves to building a stronger and more prosperous India.
In his address, Doval cautioned that many young people today may mistakenly believe that freedom simply means doing whatever they wish. He stressed that such an understanding overlooks the immense struggle and sacrifices made by generations of Indians to secure the country’s independence.
“Freedom does not mean doing whatever you want. It was earned by people who sacrificed their lives for the nation,” Doval said while addressing the audience.
Calls on Youth to Put National Interest Above Personal Gains
The NSA appealed to India’s youth to dedicate themselves wholeheartedly to the country’s development. According to Doval, India is currently passing through a historic phase that presents an extraordinary opportunity to transform the nation into a global leader.
He encouraged young Indians to keep the country’s interests above personal ambitions, saying that individual aspirations can wait when the nation requires collective effort and commitment.
Doval described the present period as a “rare window of opportunity” in India’s history and urged citizens not to let it slip away. He expressed confidence that the country’s youth possess the ability and determination to write a new chapter in India’s development journey if they work together with a shared national purpose.
Freedom Comes With Responsibility
Highlighting the true meaning of independence, Doval reminded the audience that India’s freedom was achieved only after decades of struggle, suffering, and sacrifices by freedom fighters. He noted that today’s generation has grown up in an independent India and may not fully appreciate the hardships endured by previous generations.
He said freedom should be viewed not merely as a collection of personal rights but also as a responsibility to contribute positively to society and the nation. According to him, preserving and strengthening the country’s progress requires discipline, commitment, and a willingness to place national interests above individual convenience.
The NSA urged young people to understand the value of the freedom they enjoy today and ensure that the sacrifices of those who fought for independence are honoured through responsible citizenship and nation-building.
Invokes Lokmanya Tilak’s Legacy
During his speech, Doval referred to the ideals of Lokmanya Bal Gangadhar Tilak, whose contributions to India’s freedom movement inspired generations of young Indians to challenge colonial rule. He said Tilak awakened a new sense of national consciousness and encouraged people to fight against oppression.
According to Doval, modern India needs a similar spirit of dedication, courage, and patriotism. He encouraged the younger generation to study the lives and values of national icons such as Tilak and draw inspiration from their unwavering commitment to the country.
The NSA emphasized that India can achieve unprecedented growth only when its citizens collectively embrace a sense of duty and purpose.
Nation-Building Must Be the Priority
Doval said India’s future depends significantly on the choices made by today’s youth. He urged them not to become distracted by narrow or temporary interests but instead focus on contributing to India’s long-term development.
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He asserted that every young citizen has an important role in strengthening the nation’s economic progress, technological advancement, social harmony, and security. According to him, India’s aspirations of becoming a developed nation can only be fulfilled if its younger generation actively participates in nation-building.
The NSA also expressed confidence that India has both the resources and human potential needed to emerge as one of the world’s leading nations, provided citizens remain united in their commitment to national development.
Award Recognises Contribution to National Security
Ajit Doval received the prestigious Lokmanya Tilak National Award in recognition of his longstanding contribution to India’s national security. Over the years, Doval has played a central role in shaping India’s security strategy and has served as the country’s National Security Advisor since 2014.
The award ceremony was attended by senior dignitaries, including Union Home Minister Amit Shah, who praised Doval’s decades of service in strengthening India’s national security framework. The recognition acknowledged his extensive experience in intelligence, strategic planning, and national security affairs.
Doval concluded his speech with a message of optimism, expressing faith that India’s youth will seize this historic opportunity to contribute to the country’s progress. He said the coming years offer an unparalleled chance to create a stronger, more self-reliant, and globally respected India if citizens remain committed to the ideals of service, sacrifice, and national unity.
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