Chief Guest:
Shri Ratnesh Sada, Hon’ble Minister, Government of Bihar
Guest of Honour:
Mr. Vijay Prakash, Former IAS Officer, Bihar
Background:
The Bihar Dalit Vikas Samiti (BDVS), a pioneering organization committed to the empowerment of marginalized communities, hosted the State-Level Convention of Ambedkar Yuva Manch (AYM) to foster youth leadership, social equity, and community development. Held on October 21–22, 2024, the convention provided a vibrant platform for youth to connect, reflect, and strategize on key issues impacting their lives and communities.
Given Bihar's significant youth demographic and the persistent socio-economic barriers they face—such as limited access to education, employment, and leadership opportunities—this initiative aimed to empower participants in alignment with Dr. B.R. Ambedkar's vision of justice, equality, and dignity for all.

Objectives of the Convention:

1. Youth Empowerment: Build leadership, life skills, and self-reliance among AYM members.
2. Self-Evaluation & Peer Learning: Encourage self-reflection and mutual learning through shared experiences.
3. Strategic Planning for Growth: Develop community-centric action plans to address contemporary challenges

Day 1: October 21, 2024:
Inaugural Session The event commenced with a flag-hoisting ceremony, symbolic balloon release, and the recital of the Samvidhan Prastavana (preamble of the constitution) by Mr. Sonu Kumar of Barbigha. Youth from Barh presented a welcome song, setting an inspiring tone for the event. Floral tributes were paid to Dr. B.R. Ambedkar’s portrait, reinforcing the ideological foundation of the gathering.
Fr. Jose, Director of BDVS, welcomed the guests and participants, emphasizing the critical role of youth in social transformation. He introduced the chief dignitaries and highlighted the AYM’s ongoing journey since its inception in 2016. Mr. Sinaya Nayak, Program Coordinator, offered insights into the AYM’s impact, focusing on themes such as leadership development, career planning, and Ambedkarite values.

Keynote Speeches & Discussions
Mr. Vijay Prakash, Ex-IAS Officer & Director, Creative Learning School, Patna

• Advocated for entrepreneurship and self-employment as sustainable livelihoods.
• Stressed the importance of English proficiency and digital literacy.
• Highlighted the value of vocational education and business innovation among Dalit youth.

Shri Ratnesh Sada, Hon’ble Minister, Bihar Government:

• Underscored the transformative power of education for marginalized communities.
• Acknowledged BDVS’s efforts in disaster response and educational outreach.
• Called upon youth to renounce substance abuse and focus on skill-building and career advancement.

Cultural Segment
A powerful skit led by Mr. Rajnikant and his team portrayed the detrimental effects of alcoholism on families and society. Key slogans such as “Nashe ko na, Shiksha ko haan” and “NASHA KARE NAASH, Nashapan Dur Kare” resonated with the audience, underlining the need for awareness and behavior change.
Day 2: October 22, 2024
The day began with a meditation and yoga session led by Fr. Lawrence SJ to promote mental well-being and focus.
Skill Development & Capacity Building Sessions

Fr. Yeshu Raj, Don Bosco Skill Development Center

• Encouraged participants to identify local needs and establish enterprises to address market gaps.
• Highlighted the importance of practical, skill-based training for financial independence.

Mr. Rahul Kumar, DRCC Patna – Government Youth Schemes
He outlined major schemes aimed at empowering Bihar’s youth:

• Kushal Yuva Programme: Soft skills, communication, and computer training.
• Mukhya Mantri Swayam Sahayata Bhatta Yojna: Financial aid with mandatory skill training.
• Bihar Student Credit Card Scheme: Up to ₹4 lakh for higher education with flexible repayment.

Youth Safarnama – Celebrating Success Stories
This segment showcased the achievements of AYM members, illustrating real-world impact:

• Rakesh Kumar (Bihar Police): Demonstrated how community engagement can lead to career success.
• Rupak Kumar: Entrepreneur who established a repair shop, creating local employment.
• Sanjeet Kumar: Operates a CSP center, championing digital inclusion.
• Rohit Kumar Raushan: Advocates for political participation of the Mahadalit community.

Address by Fr. Louis Prakash
He spoke about the pressing issues of migration, Dalit rights, and the importance of safe migration practices. He introduced key government initiatives like:

• E-Shram Card: Supports migrant workers with social security.
• PM Ayushman Bharat Card: Provides healthcare access for underprivileged populations.
• Migration

Way Forward – Strategic Action Plan

1. Safe Migration Advocacy: AYM leaders to coordinate awareness campaigns and appoint local representatives at block and panchayat levels.
2. Digital & Technical Skill Expansion: Mobilize tech-savvy youth to help communities access government welfare schemes.
3. RTI Training & Youth Leadership: Select and train 25 RTI volunteers to promote transparency and civic engagement.

Closing Session & Remarks
Fr. Jose concluded the convention by urging the youth to adopt discipline, perseverance, and a growth mindset. He emphasized continuous learning and community service as essential pillars for sustainable success. The convention concluded with the national anthem, symbolizing unity and commitment to the shared vision of an equitable society.
Conclusion
The State-Level Convention of the Ambedkar Yuva Manch served as a powerful catalyst for youth empowerment in Bihar. Through insightful discussions, practical training, and shared inspiration, it reinforced the values of leadership, inclusion, and social justice. The momentum generated will continue to fuel grassroots efforts toward a more just and empowered society.