NEW DELHI: In a historic move, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has appointed Rekha Gupta as the Chief Minister of Delhi, bringing the party back to power in the NCT of Delhi after 27 years. This well-calculated decision accentuates Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s commitment to fostering youth leadership skills, particularly among university students.
A Message to Today’s Youth
Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s decision to elevate a leader with roots in student leadership sends a convincing message to the youth of India. It further highlights the credible significance of nurturing leadership qualities from a young age, and showcases how student leaders can ascend to prominent political roles.
Rekha Gupta’s journey from an Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP) activist to the Chief Minister of Delhi is a testament to the impact of early leadership engagement, and elevation. It serves as an inspiration for young individuals aspiring to contribute to patriotism, politics and India’s governance.
From Student Activist to Chief Minister
Rekha Gupta’s leadership journey began in 1992 when she joined the ABVP while receiving education at Daulat Ram College, Delhi University. Her leadership skills propelled her to the position of President of the Delhi University Students’ Union (DUSU). It was from 1996 to 1997, when she actively championed students’ causes.
Over the years, she has held key positions within the BJP, including General Secretary and President of the Delhi BJP Mahila Morcha. Now, as the fourth woman Chief Minister of Delhi, Gupta’s appointment is a milestone in Indian politics, emphasizing the role of women in leadership as well.
ABVP: A Youth Leadership Training Ground
Rekha Gupta is not the only leader whose leadership journey began with the ABVP. Over the years, it has paved the way for many influential leaders in India, shaping their ideological foundations and a sense of patriotism.
Remarkably, Amit Shah, the Union home minister and one of the party’s key strategists, found his leadership skilled honed during his college days in Gujarat as an active ABVP member.
The influence of ABVP extends beyond this stalwart. Rajnath Singh joined the ABVP in 1964 while studying in Mirzapur, Uttar Pradesh, laying the foundation for his leadership journey. Rising through the ranks, he reached the pinnacle of his political career, and now serves as India’s Defence Minister.
Nirmala Sitharaman, India’s first full-time female Finance Minister, is also a former ABVP member before joining the BJP, rising through the ranks to become one of the party’s most prominent faces. Likewise, J.P. Nadda, the current BJP National President, was deeply involved in student politicking under ABVP in Patna University, which paved the way for his leadership and organisational management.
Other prominent ABVP alumni include Dharmendra Pradhan, who is currently the Education Minister of India. Anurag Thakur, now the Union Minister for Information & Broadcasting, was an ABVP activist before stepping into national politics.
Devendra Fadnavis, the Chief Minister of Maharashtra, found his early political grounding in the organization, as did Ravi Shankar Prasad, a former Union Minister and veteran BJP leader who actively participated in student activism during his university days.
One of the notable ABVP alumni from Bihar is Nityanand Rai, who actively participated in student politics before joining the BJP. He is now serving as the Minister of State for Home Affairs, playing a key role in national security and administration.
Giriraj Singh, who was influenced by ABVP during his early years, has held several important portfolios and is currently the Union Textile Minister. Former Deputy Chief Minister of Bihar, Late Sushil Kumar Modi, also had a background in ABVP. He was instrumental in strengthening the BJP’s position in the state.
Nation- building
These leaders, who once raised slogans on university campuses and fought for student rights, have gone on to influence national policies and governance, proving that ABVP is not just a student body but a breeding ground for future policymakers and political strategists. Their journeys underscore how grassroots activism can transform into national leadership, a message that continues to resonate with young political aspirants across the country.
ABVP has long been a breeding ground for young leaders, instilling in them the values of discipline, Indian culture, social responsibilities, leadership, and patriotism. Founded in 1949 with the vision of shaping and moulding students into responsible citizens, ABVP goes beyond conventional student politics, nurturing individuals who not only excel in academics but also contribute to nation-building.
At the core of ABVP’s ideology is the belief that students are the future leaders of the country, and their formative years should be spent understanding the challenges faced by society. Through active participation in social movements, educational reforms, and youth-driven initiatives, ABVP members develop skills in public speaking, organizational management, and decision-making. The organization provides a platform for students to engage in debates, policy discussions, and grassroots activism, giving them firsthand experience in governance and administration.
Emphasis on Patriotism
One of the defining aspects of ABVP’s leadership training is its emphasis on patriotism and national service. Unlike mainstream student bodies that focus solely on campus-level issues, ABVP integrates cultural pride and a strong nationalistic spirit into its activities. By organizing events like Seva (Service) Camps, Tiranga Yatras, and awareness drives on national issues, the organization ensures that its members not only think about personal growth but also their role in the progress of the nation.
Whether it is advocating for educational reforms, standing up for students’ rights, or promoting social welfare programs, ABVP has consistently worked to ignite the spirit of selfless service among India’s youth.
Through its structured programs, leadership training camps, and on-ground activism, ABVP continues to shape a generation of determined, principled, and patriotic individuals who are prepared to take on leadership roles in politics, academia, and various other fields. By fostering a deep sense of duty towards the nation, the organization ensures that young minds are not just career-oriented but also committed to the larger goal of building a stronger, more self-reliant India.
Viksit Bharat Young Leaders Dialogue
On January 12, 2025, Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched the “Viksit Bharat Young Leaders Dialogue 2025” at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi, marking National Youth Day. Addressing 3,000 young leaders selected from over 3 million applicants, he emphasized their role in shaping a developed India. Highlighting India’s rapid progress, he expressed pride in youth-driven innovation. The event, held at the G-20 summit venue, symbolized the nation’s trust in its young leaders to drive future growth. Hence, it is a clarion call for today’s youth.
As Bihar prepares for elections this year, ABVP’s youth leaders are gaining prominence with their focus on education, employment, and grassroots activism. Their growing influence reflects the youth’s demand for fresh leadership and impactful change in the state’s politics.