In a vibrant celebration of talent and youth engagement, Smt. Raksha Nikhil Khadse, Union Minister of State for Youth Affairs and Sports, inaugurated the final round of the Mann Ki Baat Talent Hunt Season 5 on Monday morning at Jyothis Central School, Menamkulam, Kazhakkoottam, Thiruvananthapuram. The event, starting at 9:00 AM, marks a key milestone in the Ministry’s broader efforts to empower young citizens through skill development, cultural awareness, and civic consciousness.
Organized by the Global Givers Foundation in collaboration with Mera Yuva Bharat (MyBharat), Kerala, the competition aligns closely with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of a Viksit Bharat (Developed India), led by an inspired and capable generation. The initiative aims to connect young minds with the ideas and spirit of the PM’s popular radio programme Mann Ki Baat.
A Platform for Aspiration and Expression
Delivering the inaugural address, Union MoS Smt. Raksha Khadse said,
“The ‘Mann Ki Baat Talent Hunt’ is a powerful platform for our youth to connect with the pulse of the nation, understand our collective aspirations, and develop critical thinking and communication skills. By engaging with the insightful messages from Mann Ki Baat, these young minds are not only learning about India but are also being shaped into responsible and informed citizens who will drive the vision of a Viksit Bharat.”
The event was also attended by prominent dignitaries including:
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Shri Manil Kumar, State Director, Mera Yuva Bharat, Kerala, who welcomed the participants.
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Shri V. Muraleedharan, Former Minister of State for External Affairs, who delivered the presidential address.
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Shri Jyothischandran, Chairman, Jyothis Group of Institutions, who offered his support for the initiative.
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Representatives from the District Administration and MyBharat, who underscored the importance of collaborative community engagement.
Competitions Rooted in Culture and Civic Engagement
Students from high schools, higher secondary schools, and colleges across Kerala participated in the final round. The contest tested a range of skills through:
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Radio Jockey (RJ) presentations
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Debate and public speaking challenges
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Reel creation competitions
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Project presentations based on themes from Mann Ki Baat
This multi-disciplinary format was designed to foster critical skills such as communication, analytical thinking, and creative expression, while also deepening participants’ understanding of India’s socio-cultural and historical narratives as conveyed through the Mann Ki Baat broadcasts.
A National Movement Through Airwaves
The Mann Ki Baat programme, broadcast by All India Radio, has become a globally recognized radio broadcast with one of the largest listener bases. Known for highlighting Indian traditions, unsung heroes, the freedom struggle, innovation, environmental consciousness, and citizen-led initiatives, it has served as an inspirational archive for educators, youth workers, and students alike.
By centering the talent hunt around this content, organizers aim to instill a sense of national pride and purpose among India’s youth. Winners from past seasons have been invited to witness national celebrations in Delhi, offering a chance to meet national leaders and gain firsthand insight into India’s democratic and cultural institutions. Season 5 promises the same opportunity during the 2025 Independence Day celebrations.
Strengthening the Vision of Youth-Led Progress
Dr. A Radhakrishnan Nair, Director of the Global Givers Foundation, delivered the vote of thanks, recognizing the joint efforts of government bodies, educators, and local institutions in making the program a success.
The competitions began at 10:00 AM and featured an impressive array of performances and presentations, reflecting not only the individual talents of participants but also their engagement with themes such as social responsibility, innovation, environmental sustainability, and national heritage.
With initiatives like the Mann Ki Baat Talent Hunt, the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports reaffirms its commitment to equipping India’s youth with both the skills and the mindset necessary to contribute meaningfully to the country’s future. Through platforms that marry civic education with cultural expression, this generation is being shaped to lead, innovate, and uphold the values of a progressive and inclusive India.
