Chandigarh – In a historic address at the Indian School of Business Leadership Summit 2024 held in Mohali, Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar declared that for the first time, India's voice is being heard with a level of respect unprecedented in global affairs. He emphasized that India's ascent on the world stage is not only significant for the nation but also essential for promoting global peace, stability, and harmony. Speaking to an audience of emerging leaders, Dhankhar asserted that true leadership must be deeply rooted in nationalism, maintaining that the interests of the nation should always be at the forefront of decision-making.
He urged the next generation of leaders to innovate, research, and design within India, advocating for a framework of economic nationalism that prioritizes value addition over the mere export of raw materials. Dhankhar expressed concern about the current export trends, calling for a collective commitment to develop ethical economic practices that enrich the country. He highlighted the pressing need for leaders who can tackle both domestic and global challenges, fostering partnerships that address everyday issues faced by Indian citizens.
The Vice President further cautioned against the dangers of indoctrination within leadership programs, likening it to giving harmful substances to vulnerable individuals. He warned young leaders to remain vigilant against external influences that attempt to paint a negative image of India's potential. "Nationalism must be at the core of leadership training," he stated, insisting that it should form a fundamental part of educational curricula for future leaders.
Emphasizing the importance of grassroots leadership, Dhankhar noted that India's constitutionally structured democracy reaches down to the village and municipal levels, reinforcing the principles of transparency and accountability. He reassured attendees that the current government, in its historic continuous third term, is dedicated to fostering growth through innovative initiatives that will expand opportunities for young leaders. As part of the vision to transform the country, Dhankhar mentioned ambitious projects, including the allocation of Rs 19,000 crore for the Green Hydrogen Mission and Rs 6,000 crore for the National Quantum Computing Mission.
He spoke of the impending commercialization of 6G technology, which he believes will create vast opportunities and redefine India's landscape. The event was attended by notable figures, including Punjab Governor Gulab Chand Kataria and Rakesh Bharti Mittal, Vice-Chairman of Bharti Enterprises. With his passionate call for nationalism and ethical leadership, Vice President Dhankhar left the audience inspired to contribute positively toward India’s growth and its standing in the world community.