A delegation from Andhra Pradesh visited Maharashtra under the Yuva Sangam Phase-VI programme, an initiative of the Department of Higher Education under the Ministry of Education’s Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat programme aimed at promoting cultural exchange, experiential learning and national integration among youth.
The delegation, led by the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Tirupati, was hosted by the Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER), Pune. The five-day programme provided participants an opportunity to experience Maharashtra’s cultural heritage, educational institutions, innovation ecosystem and developmental initiatives.
During the visit, the delegates called on Maharashtra Governor Jishnu Dev Varma at Lok Bhavan in Mumbai on June 8. The Governor shared his views on leadership, nation-building and national integration, while highlighting the importance of understanding and appreciating India’s cultural diversity. The interaction provided participants with insights into governance and public service.
As part of the programme, the delegation undertook visits centred on the themes of tourism, development and people-to-people connect. Participants visited the historic Khandoba Mandir at Jejuri, one of Maharashtra’s prominent spiritual and cultural landmarks.
The delegation also visited Adachiwadi, a model village, where participants interacted with the Sarpanch, Gram Panchayat members and villagers. The interactions provided insights into grassroots governance, rural development initiatives, community participation and village-led transformation.
On June 6, the delegates participated in activities focused on environment and traditions. The day began with a biodiversity walk and a tree plantation drive at the IISER Pune campus to promote environmental awareness and sustainability.
Participants also visited the historic Shaniwar Wada and took part in a heritage walk through Pune city, gaining exposure to Maharashtra’s architectural, cultural and historical heritage.
The programme included a language session conducted by Prof. Sonal Kulkarni Joshi of Deccan College, introducing participants to Maharashtra’s linguistic heritage and cultural diversity.
The delegates also interacted with Maharashtra Higher and Technical Education Minister Chandrakant Dada Patil and Urban Development Minister Madhuri Tai Misal. Patil encouraged the participants to experience Maharashtra’s traditions while appreciating the shared cultural values that unite the country. Misal shared her perspectives on urban development and urged the delegates to pursue excellence while remaining connected to their roots and values.
The programme concluded with a traditional Maharashtrian dinner and a valedictory session held on June 9.
According to the Ministry of Education, the Yuva Sangam initiative seeks to strengthen the spirit of Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat by fostering cultural understanding, mutual learning and stronger connections among youth from different regions of the country.
