New Delhi, August 1: National Security Advisor Ajit Doval on Saturday urged India’s youth to place national interest above personal gains, saying the country is at a crucial stage in its development and must seize the current opportunity to build a stronger future.
Speaking after receiving the Lokmanya Tilak National Award 2026 in Pune, Doval said young people should dedicate themselves to the nation’s progress and avoid being guided by narrow or short term interests.
The award was presented by Union Home Minister Amit Shah at a ceremony organised by the Tilak Smarak Trust.
Addressing the gathering, Doval said the younger generation should commit themselves fully to serving the country.
“Today’s youth should work only for the national interest. They should be willing to sacrifice small personal interests and ignore them whenever necessary,” he said.
Doval described the present period as a historic opportunity for India and stressed that the nation could not afford to lose momentum.
“There is a window of opportunity in the history of our country. We cannot afford to lose it. Our priority now is nation building,” he said.
Expressing confidence in India’s future, the NSA said the country would successfully create a new chapter in its history through collective efforts.
He also said India was fortunate to have leaders like Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah, praising Shah’s clear vision and commitment to the country.
Paying tribute to Lokmanya Bal Gangadhar Tilak, Doval described him as a freedom fighter, social reformer and philosopher who inspired people during India’s struggle for independence.
Recalling Tilak’s commitment during the plague in Pune, Doval said Tilak chose to remain with the people despite the personal tragedy of losing his 21 year old son.
He also reminded the audience that freedom was earned through immense sacrifice and said citizens should use their rights responsibly while remembering those who fought for India’s independence.
Doval accepted the Lokmanya Tilak National Award with humility and said it was a privilege to receive an honour named after one of India’s greatest national leaders.
