“Yuva Sangam” is a flagship Youth Exchange Programme of the Department of Higher Education, Government of India, aimed at strengthening emotional bonds and fostering mutual understanding among young citizens from different States and Union Territories. The initiative promotes the spirit of “Unity in Diversity” by facilitating structured exposure visits between paired States/UTs. India is a unique nation, whose fabric has been woven by diverse linguistic, cultural and religious threads, fused together into a composite national identity by a rich history of cultural evolution, coupled with a freedom struggle that was built around the tenets of non-violence and justice. The spirit of mutual understanding amidst a shared history has enabled a unique sense of unity in diversity among Indians, which stands out as a tall flame of nationhood that needs to be nourished and cherished The idea of a sustained and structured cultural connect between people of different regions was mooted by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi during the Rashtriya Ekta Diwas held on 31st October, 2015, to commemorate the birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel. To take this idea forward, EBSB was launched on 31st October 2016. Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat programme aims to enhance interaction & promote mutual understanding between people of different states/UTs. The states/UTs carry out activities to promote a sustained and structured cultural connection in the areas of language learning, culture, traditions & music, tourism & cuisine, sports and sharing of best practices, etc. Aim of Yuva sangam India being a nation with one of the youngest populations in the world, the initiative of ‘Yuva Sangam (युवासंगम) under Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat has been conceptualised with an aim to strengthen people to people connect and build empathy among youth across the nation. Phases of Yuva Sangam Since its launch in early 2023, several phases of Yuva Sangam have been held. Phase I of Yuva Sangam was concluded with overwhelming participation of about 1200 youngsters and coordinators from 25 Institutions visiting 23 States of India through 29 tours with main focus on North Eastern Region. During Phase II of the Yuva Sangam, close to 1000 youth and coordinators from 20 Institutions participated in the 20 tours covering 23 states/ UTs. Yuva Sangam Phase III saw more than 1,000 youth and coordinators from 20 institutions embark on 20 tours, exploring 22 diverse states and union territories throughout India. Yuva Sangam Phase IV, a contingent of over 1000 Youth and coordinators from 22 institution undertook 21 tours, covering 22 States and UTs across the Indian Landscape. The participants have gained invaluable insights and experiences that have exemplified the essence of 'Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat. Yuva Sangam Phase VI In Yuva Sangam Phase-VI, 22 Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) have been identified as nodal institutions across the country. Selected participants will undertake five to seven-day educational and cultural tours (excluding travel days) to their paired States/UTs. The programme is structured around the five thematic pillars — the 5 Ps: Paryatan (Tourism), Parampara (Traditions & Culture), Pragati (Development & Governance), Paraspar Sampark (People-to-People Connect), and Prodyogiki (Technology & Innovation). Through these pillars, participants gain first-hand exposure to cultural heritage, development initiatives, technological advancements, local communities, and educational institutions, aligning with the objectives of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. Yuva Sangam is implemented through a collaborative “Whole of Government” approach with support from participating Ministries/Departments/Agencies, State Governments, and nodal HEIs. Eligibility and General Guidelines for delegates All Indian citizens of the age group 18-30 years – students, NSS/ NYKS volunteers, employed/ self-employed persons, etc. are eligible to apply under this programme. The Nodal Higher Education Institution will make the final selection for the students/youth residing in the State/UT where the HEIs is located. UG, PG students, PhD Scholars & other youth will be considered for selection. The selection will be made keeping in view various parameters like equal representation of male and female, educational background, academic disciplines, adequate representation from rural / remote areas, inclusivity, representation from all section of the society etc. The youth selected to participate in the YUVA SANGAM (Phase-VI), i.e. the delegates will be contacted by the Nodal Officers of Higher Education Institutions for all further correspondence The applicant should be medically fit and able to travel. During the journey, the delegates will need to maintain decorum at all times. Delegates should follow covid appropriate behaviour, as applicable, during entire visit. Delegates travelling in a group are expected to adhere strictly to the guidelines given by the coordinator of the group. Delegates must respect the cultural and ethnic sensitivities of the State/UT during the visit. Yuva Sangam (Phase-VI) starting from 2nd March 2026, envisages participation of youngsters from 22 States and UTs of India in enriching educational cum cultural tours. How to register Online applications are open during March 02 - 18, 2026. To apply visit https://ebsb.aicte-india.org/