Pune, Maharashtra: National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval delivered a powerful message of patriotism and national responsibility while accepting the prestigious Lokmanya Tilak National Award 2026, urging India’s youth to place the country’s interests above personal ambitions. Addressing a gathering in Pune after receiving the honour from Union Home Minister Amit Shah, Doval described the present era as a historic opportunity for India and encouraged young citizens to contribute selflessly toward nation-building.
Speaking at the award ceremony organized by the Tilak Smarak Trust, Doval emphasized that India’s future would largely depend on the commitment and vision of its younger generation. He urged them to look beyond short-term individual gains and dedicate themselves to strengthening the nation at a time when India is emerging as a significant global power.
His remarks, rooted in the ideals of freedom fighter Lokmanya Bal Gangadhar Tilak, focused on patriotism, national unity, responsible citizenship, and the importance of understanding the true meaning of freedom.
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Ajit Doval Calls on Youth to Prioritise National Interest
Delivering one of the most significant addresses of the event, Ajit Doval appealed directly to India’s youth, urging them to make national service their foremost priority. According to Ajit Doval, the country currently stands at a unique point in history where rapid economic growth, technological advancement, and global recognition have created an unprecedented opportunity for long-term development.
Ajit Doval stressed that young Indians must consciously choose to work in the national interest instead of focusing solely on immediate personal success or material gains. Ajit Doval said the nation needs individuals who are willing to contribute towards collective progress while placing the country’s welfare above individual aspirations. His message reflected a broader vision of responsible citizenship, where personal achievement and national development move together rather than existing as competing priorities.
Freedom Means Responsibility, Not Unlimited Liberty
Ajit Doval said today’s youth should understand that freedom is not just about personal liberty but also about responsibility towards the nation. He emphasized that India’s independence was earned through the sacrifices of countless freedom fighters and urged young Indians to value that legacy by contributing to nation-building and strengthening democratic values.
India Faces Challenges From Within and Beyond Its Borders
During his address, Ajit Doval also highlighted the complex challenges confronting India in today’s geopolitical environment.
He noted that the country continues to face threats originating both internally and externally.
Without elaborating on specific security matters, Doval remarked that India’s rapid growth and expanding global influence are viewed as challenges by certain international powers.
His observations underscored the importance of maintaining national unity, strategic preparedness, and collective resilience as India advances economically, technologically, and diplomatically.
Coming from the country’s National Security Advisor, these remarks reflected the broader security landscape in which India’s developmental journey continues to unfold.
Drawing Inspiration From Lokmanya Bal Gangadhar Tilak
Receiving the Lokmanya Tilak National Award 2026, Ajit Doval reflected on the enduring legacy of Lokmanya Bal Gangadhar Tilak, urging young Indians to study his life and patriotism. He described Tilak as a fearless leader who inspired the freedom movement despite repression and hardships. Ajit Doval said Tilak’s ideals of sacrifice, courage, and nation-building remain highly relevant as India moves toward a stronger future.
A Personal Connection With Pune
Ajit Doval also shared a personal connection with Pune, recalling that he first arrived in the city around 76 years ago when his father was posted there with the Indian Army. He spent over a year in Pune, attended school, regularly visited the Chaturshringi Temple with his mother, and was inspired by a school lecture on Lokmanya Tilak. Doval said he never imagined he would one day return to Pune to receive an award in Tilak’s name, describing the moment as deeply meaningful and humbling.
Gratitude for the Lokmanya Tilak National Award
Accepting the honour with humility, Ajit Doval thanked the Tilak Smarak Trust and described receiving the Lokmanya Tilak National Award 2026 as a privilege. He said the recognition was not just a personal milestone but also a tribute to the ideals of national service that have guided his public life. The prestigious award honours individuals who have made outstanding contributions to nation-building and public service.
Amit Shah Presents the Award
The ceremony was attended by Union Home Minister Amit Shah, who presented the Lokmanya Tilak National Award 2026 to Ajit Doval.
The event brought together political leaders, scholars, public representatives, and citizens to celebrate the life and ideals of Lokmanya Tilak while recognising Doval’s contributions to national security and public service.
The award presentation served as the central highlight of the programme, with Doval’s address emerging as one of the most widely discussed aspects of the event.
Praise for Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Amit Shah
During his acceptance speech, Ajit Doval also acknowledged the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah.
He said India is fortunate to have leaders committed to advancing the nation’s development and strengthening its position on the global stage.
While expressing appreciation for their leadership, Doval reiterated that India’s long-term success ultimately depends on the participation and dedication of its citizens, particularly the younger generation.
Why Doval’s Message Resonates Today
Ajit Doval’s remarks come at a time when India is witnessing rapid economic growth, technological progress, and rising global influence. He stressed that achieving the country’s long-term goals will require greater youth participation, responsible citizenship, and a nation-first mindset. Speaking at the Lokmanya Tilak National Award 2026 ceremony, Ajit Doval urged young Indians to draw inspiration from Lokmanya Tilak’s ideals and contribute selflessly to nation-building. He said India’s future depends on citizens embracing unity, responsibility, and national interest above personal gains.
