VBYLD 2026 Opens in Delhi as PM Modi Set to Engage Youth on January 12

Selected from a pool of over 50 lakh applicants, around 2,000 delegates will refine proposals for direct presentation to the prime minister.

Overview

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will attend the concluding session on National Youth Day, interact with more than 3,000 youngsters, and release an essay compilation, the PMO said.
The dialogue is underway at Bharat Mandapam with a formal opening ceremony featuring National Security Advisor Ajit Doval.
Participants advanced through a three-stage selection process and are working across 10 thematic tracks that span governance, women-led development, startups, cultural diplomacy, and innovation with tradition.
Experts and mentors are scheduled to stress-test finalist proposals on January 10 before refined pitches are showcased to the prime minister.
Organizers state the event runs January 9–12, includes 80 diaspora youths under the Know India Programme, and adds new elements such as Design for Bharat and a Tech for Viksit Bharat social-impact hack.