Ajit Doval Urges Youth to Respect Meaning of Freedom
National Security Adviser Ajit Doval has warned that young people may confuse freedom with unrestricted personal liberty, urging them to recognise that independence also carries responsibilities towards society and the nation.
Ajit Doval Explains Meaning of Freedom
Doval said freedom should not be understood merely as the liberty to act according to individual wishes. He reminded younger generations that India’s independence was secured through decades of struggle and the sacrifices of countless citizens.
He urged young Indians to examine the meaning of self-rule through the ideas of Lokmanya Bal Gangadhar Tilak. Doval said the privileges enjoyed by the present generation were made possible by people who placed the national interest above personal comfort and safety.
His remarks highlighted the distinction between exercising individual rights and using freedom responsibly while respecting national and social obligations.
Youth Urged to Serve India
Doval called upon young people to rise above personal gain and dedicate their abilities to India’s development. He described the current period as a crucial “window of opportunity” for the country to strengthen its global position.
The National Security Adviser said India could not afford to lose this opportunity and that its success would depend heavily on the discipline, determination and participation of its younger population.
He encouraged the youth to draw inspiration from Tilak’s commitment to self-rule, education and public service.
Ajit Doval Receives Tilak Award
Doval made the remarks in Pune while receiving the 2026 Lokmanya Tilak National Award for his contribution to national security and strategic affairs.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah presented the honour at a ceremony marking Tilak’s death anniversary. Shah said Doval had played an important role in major national security decisions taken by the Union government since 2014.
Instituted in 1983, the annual award recognises distinguished contributions to national progress and public service.
