VIT-AP Hosts Viksit Bharat Young Leaders Dialogue 2026 on India’s Soft Power and Global Influence

Amaravati, September 10, 2026: VIT-AP University, Amaravati, hosted the Viksit Bharat Young Leaders Dialogue (VBYLD) 2026 – Young Professionals Roundtable, bringing together students, young professionals and emerging leaders for a day-long dialogue on India’s soft power, cultural diplomacy and its growing influence on the global stage.
Held at the Tanguturi Prakasam Auditorium, VIT-AP, the programme focused on the theme “Bharat’s Soft Power: Cultural Diplomacy and Global Influence for Viksit Bharat.” The discussions explored how India’s rich cultural heritage, knowledge, innovation, entrepreneurship, technology and youthful energy can contribute to strengthening the country’s global identity and advancing the vision of Viksit Bharat.
The programme commenced with a welcome address by Dr. P. Arulmozhivarman, Vice Chancellor, VIT-AP University, followed by the ceremonial lighting of the lamp, Vandemataram song and screening of the VBYLD video. Key inputs of the Hon’ble Prime Minister were also presented as part of the dialogue, setting the context for the deliberations among young professionals and students.
Dr. P. Arulmozhivarman, Vice Chancellor, VIT-AP University, in his welcome address said, “A true leader doesn’t wait for opportunity but he/she should create opportunities. Viksit Bharat Young Leaders Dialogue 2026 on India’s Soft Power and Global Influence is a platform where young minds can engage with important national priorities and transform their ideas into meaningful action. India’s soft power is rooted in our culture, knowledge, diversity and youthful energy. By encouraging dialogue, creativity and collaboration among young professionals, we can nurture a generation that will strengthen India’s global influence and contribute to the realization of Viksit Bharat.”
Distinguished panel brings diverse perspectives to students
A major highlight of the programme was the interaction between students and an eminent panel comprising experts from industry, technology, architecture, government, culture, entrepreneurship and the creative sector.
The distinguished panelists were: Chandni Chandana, Co-Founder, Aware AI Mobility; K. Kesavarao, Country Head –, Motorola Solutions India; Ramesh Sirikonda, Director, School Planning and Architecture; Dr. Vijayabhaskar, Former Director, Department of Language and Culture, Government of Andhra Pradesh; Hemamalini Nidamanuri, Managing Director and Co-Founder, Champions Group; Siva Makutam, Founder, SM Semicon; Megha Chawla, Senior Consultant, Ministry of Commerce, Government of India; and Mythri Rao, Renowned Bharatanatyam Artist. The panelists shared their experiences and perspectives with students on the ways in which Indian culture, innovation, technology, entrepreneurship, traditional arts and contemporary ideas can enhance India’s soft power and global influence.
The interaction also encouraged students to look beyond conventional definitions of development and explore how young Indians can contribute to India’s international standing through creativity, enterprise, cultural expression and innovation.
Young leaders engage in meaningful deliberations
The Young Professionals Roundtable featured extensive panel discussions, participant interventions and open-floor interactions. Students and young professionals had the opportunity to raise questions, present their perspectives and engage directly with the panelists on opportunities and challenges associated with India’s growing global influence.
The second panel continued the deliberations in the afternoon, with participants engaging in focused discussions and interventions before the concluding session.
Dr. Jagadish Chandra – registrar – Dr. Khadeer Pasha – Deputy Director – Student welfare were also present on the occasion