NSA Ajit Doval Urges Youth to Put Nation First, Calls It a Historic Opportunity for India

Pune, Aug 1: National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval on Saturday urged the country’s youth to rise above personal interests and dedicate themselves to nation-building, saying India is passing through a historic phase that offers a unique opportunity to shape a stronger future. Speaking after receiving the Lokmanya Tilak National Award 2026 in Pune, Doval said young people should commit themselves wholeheartedly to serving the nation and be prepared to sacrifice narrow personal interests for the larger national good. “Today’s youth should resolve to work only in the national interest. They should be willing to set aside small personal gains and dedicate themselves to the country,” he said. The award was presented to Doval by Union Home Minister Amit Shah at a function organised by the Tilak Smarak Trust. Describing the present period as a “window of opportunity” in India’s history, Doval said the country cannot afford to miss the chance to build a stronger and more prosperous nation. “There is a window of opportunity in the history of our country. We cannot afford to lose it. Right now, our priority is nation-building,” he said, expressing confidence that India would create a new chapter in its history. Doval also praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah, saying the country is fortunate to have leaders with clear vision and commitment to national development. Paying tribute to Lokmanya Bal Gangadhar Tilak, Doval described him as not only a freedom fighter but also a social reformer and philosopher who awakened national consciousness among Indians. Recalling Tilak’s courage during the plague outbreak in Pune, Doval noted that despite losing his 21-year-old son, Tilak remained in the city to serve society. He said many young Indians today take freedom for granted without fully appreciating the sacrifices made by those who fought for independence. “People often speak of their rights today, but they must also remember the sacrifices made to secure those rights and ensure they are not misused,” Doval said. Referring to Tilak’s famous slogan, “Swaraj is my birthright and I shall have it,” Doval said the freedom fighter wanted every Indian to embrace the spirit of national responsibility. Accepting the Lokmanya Tilak National Award with humility, Doval thanked the organisers and reiterated his commitment to serving the nation.