Youth must enter politics guided by values : Former Vice President

Former Vice President of India and Padma Vibhushan awardee Muppavarapu Venkaiah Naidu on Friday urged the youth to actively participate in politics, but only on the foundation of strong principles, values, and integrity. He emphasized that the future of the nation lies in the hands of young people who enter public life with a commitment to high standards, honesty, and respectful conduct. 

Speaking at his residence in Delhi, he addressed students from the M.A. in Political Leadership program at Pune's MIT School of Governance. He engaged in an interactive session afterward, responding to their questions and doubts. He stressed that politics should have no room for intolerance. "Opponents should not be viewed as enemies," he said, advocating for a culture that respects differing opinions. 

He described "agreeing to disagree respectfully" as a core characteristic of democracy, urging constructive discussions and development-oriented politics over obstructionism. Drawing from his own experience, Venkaiah Naidu highlighted the importance of discipline and punctuality, crediting these qualities for his rise in public life. 

He cited examples of leaders like Atal Bihari Vajpayee and L.K. Advani, known for their impeccable time management. A staunch opponent of dynastic politics, he said he has always encouraged his family members to grow through their own efforts. He advised that leaders should not descend like parachutes but must rise from the grassroots through hard work.