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www.desitalkchicago.com – that’s all you need to know 14 CITY VIEWS November 28, 2025 Akshaya Patra Hosts 2025 Indiana Fundraiser In Merrillville, Indiana T he 2025 Akshaya Patra Indi- ana Chapter, hosted a musical fundraiser at the Indian Ameri- can Cultural Center in Merrill- ville November 15, 2025, that brought together a large gathering of like-minded supporters, all united by a shared commitment to end classroom hunger for children in India. The funds raised are expected to make a signifi- cant difference in the lives of thousands of children, ensuring they receive the nutritious meals they need to stay in school and build brighter futures. National Award-winning music com- poser Bishakh Jyoti, gave a soulful and energetic performance that elicited an enthusiastic response from the audi- ence, which also got to enjoy a delicious dinner. Chapter Chairs Dr. Saket Sinha and Dr. Ravi Bhagwat, along with executive team members Soumita and Subir Bandyopad- hyay, Dr. Shailesh Bhatt, Dr. Vijay Dharla, Darshana & Niru Patel and Chandan Rai, extended their heartfelt gratitude to all guests, donors, and volunteers for their unwavering support. A significant highlight of the night was the keynote address by entrepreneur and philanthropist Rajiv Khanna, whose inspiring words encouraged many to deepen their commitment to the cause. His message of compassion and collec- tive responsibility resonated strongly with the audience. The attendees also had the opportu- nity to hear from Akshaya Patra USA CEO Navin Goel, who shared meaningful in- sights about the impact the organization has made over the years. He also outlined the vision and plans for the upcoming years, reinforcing the importance of continued community support in driving lasting change. As the chapter reflected on the success of the event, the Akshaya Patra Indiana Chapter Team expressed excitement and optimism for 2026, looking forward to another impactful year of service and community engagement. By a StaffWriter PHOTOS:AKSHAYA PATRA Organizers and special guests as well as attendees enjoying the Akshaya Patra 2025 Fundraiser held in Merrillville, Indiana November 15, 2025. A New Gateway To India For Global Youth: Special 85th Know India Programme Announced And Invites By Consulate General Of India, Chicago T he Consulate General of India, Chicago is pleased to announce the launch of the Special 85th Edition of the Know India Pro- gramme (KIP), to be held from 06 January to 27 January 2026. The Ministry of Exter- nal Affairs (MEA), Government of India, invites applications from eligible Persons of Indian Origin (PIO) youth (excluding NRIs) aged 21–35 years for this flagship initiative. The Know India Programme is a premier outreach effort of the Diaspora Engagement Division of the Ministry of External Affairs aimed at reconnect- ing young diaspora members with their ancestral roots. The programme offers an immersive introduction to India’s art, heritage, culture, economy, innovation ecosystem, science & technology land- scape, and contemporary development journey. Since its inception in 2003–04, the Ministry has successfully organized 83 editions, enabling 2,999 PIO youth to experience the richness, diversity, and dynamism of modern India. A Special & Unique Edition: Integra- tion with Viksit Bharat Young Leaders Di- alogue (VBYLD) 2026.The upcoming 85th edition is being designed as one of the most unique in KIP’s history. In a first-of- its-kind collaboration, participants will have the opportunity to take part in the Viksit Bharat Young Leaders Dialogue (VBYLD), a national-level youth engage- ment platform aligned with India’s vision of Viksit Bharat @2047, as articulated by the Hon’ble Prime Minister of India. Viksit Bharat Young Leaders Dialogue (VBYLD).Ministry of External Affairs (Di- aspora Engagement Division):The Viksit Bharat Young Leaders Dialogue (VBYLD) 2026 marks the second edition of the reimagined National Youth Festival. Building on the success of VBYLD 2025, this edition continues to celebrate Yuva Shakti — the power of youth — through innovation, collaboration, leadership, and nation-building. Viksit Bharat Challenge Track — Flag- ship Component:At the heart of the Dialogue is the Viksit Bharat Challenge Track, which invites youth to ideate and present transformative solutions across 10 national priority tracks, includin g:Governance,Education,Sustainabilit y,Entrepreneurship,Technology,Social Development,Innovation. The Challenge unfolds through four competitive stages:Nationwide Online Quiz,Essay Competition,State- Level Presentations & Leadership Assessments,National Championship. The competition culminates in an ex- traordinary opportunity for finalists to present their vision before the Hon’ble Prime Minister of India.For the first time, select youth from the 85th KIP will also be chosen to present their ideas on this prestigious national stage - a hallmark opportunity for global Indian youth. Four Dynamic Segments of VBYLD 2026:VBYLD will bring together 3,000 ex- ceptional youth leaders from across India and the global Indian diaspora, through four major segments:Viksit Bharat Chal- lenge Track,Cultural Track ,Design for Bharat -Design Track,Hack for a Social Cause -Tech Track The Dialogue is further supported by Pathbreakers, a network of young achiev- ers and mentors guiding participants in each track. Together, this initiative aims to empower youth as catalysts for change and nurture leaders capable of shaping a Developed India by 2047. Call for Applications>The Consul- ate General of India, Chicago invites eligible candidates to submit: Scanned copy of the duly filled Application Form. Required supporting documents;Email submissions to: pic.chicago@mea.gov.in Application Deadline: 08 December 2025; By Bhailal M Patel