Pune, 1st August 2026: National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval was conferred the prestigious Lokmanya Tilak National Award by Union Home Minister Amit Shah at a ceremony held in Pune.
Accepting the honour, Doval dedicated his address to India's youth, urging them to embrace the ideals of patriotism, responsibility, and national service inspired by Lokmanya Bal Gangadhar Tilak.
Addressing the gathering, Doval said every young Indian should strive to become capable, prosperous, and value-driven while keeping the nation's interest above personal ambitions. He said India is passing through a period of immense opportunity, making it the right time for citizens, especially the youth, to actively participate in the country's development instead of remaining spectators.
He expressed confidence that if the younger generation moves forward with patriotism, dedication, and a strong sense of duty, India will script a new golden chapter in its history.
"Every young Indian should become capable, prosperous and rooted in values, while always placing the nation's interest above personal interests. If small personal sacrifices are required for the country's progress, they should be made willingly. This is not the time to watch from the sidelines but to participate in building a stronger India. With patriotism, commitment and a sense of duty, our youth can create a new golden chapter in the nation's history," he said.
Doval said today's generation must understand Lokmanya Tilak's vision for nation-building and reflect on the sacrifices and efforts he made for the country's future. He said Tilak's ideas remain relevant even today, as India continues its journey towards becoming a developed and powerful nation.
Drawing a contemporary parallel, Doval remarked that if Lokmanya Tilak were alive today, he would have urged citizens to consider building a strong and developed India as their foremost responsibility, just as he once inspired the freedom movement with his powerful vision.
Speaking on national strategy and public responsibility, Doval stressed that every citizen should think in terms of national service. He said people should avoid actions that harm the country, as anything against national interest ultimately goes against the interests of every citizen.
He concluded by saying that a strong nation can only be built when its citizens remain united by a spirit of national service, responsibility, and commitment to the country's long-term progress.
