NITI Aayog member delivers keynote address at 3rd Rajendra Memorial Lecture in PU
Member, NITI Aayog, Government of India, Dr. Vinod K. Paul today delivered a keynote address at Panjab University, Chandigarh on the theme of “Healthy Youth for Viksit Bharat: Choosing a Lifestyle that Matters Most.”
City Air News
Apr 21, 2026 09:24
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Chandigarh, April 21, 2026: Member, NITI Aayog, Government of India, Dr. Vinod K. Paul today delivered a keynote address at Panjab University, Chandigarh on the theme of “Healthy Youth for Viksit Bharat: Choosing a Lifestyle that Matters Most.”
The 3rd Rajendra Memorial Lecture was organised by the Department of Economics at Golden Jubilee Hall in memory of Late Shri Rajendra Nanda (1918–1992), a freedom fighter associated with the Quit India Movement and noted for his contributions to academia and public service.
In his address, Dr. Paul emphasised that India’s accelerated flight for Viksit Bharat will be powered by youth. He highlighted the importance of Swasthya Bharat, while presenting an analogy of economics and health. He specified the economic cost of deteriorating health and how it affects our nation’s growth. He emphasised the need for counselling, and highlighted the importance of Tele-MANAS helpline number 14416, which provides counselling services in 20 languages.
Earlier, PU Vice Chancellor, Prof. Renu Vig, delivered the inaugural remarks and reflected on the continuing relevance of Rajendra Nanda’s legacy for students and scholars.
Chairperson, Department of Economics, Dr. Smita Sharma proposed the vote of thanks.
Daughter of Late Rajendra Nanda, Uma Nijhawan attended the lecture along with Sunil Nijhawan. Dean, Alumni Relations, Prof. Latika Sharma participated as Guest of Honour. A large number of faculty members, students, and invited participants attended the lecture.
