The Ministry of External Affairs stated that India’s recent Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC) youth leadership exchange program showcased the nation’s dedication to regional collaboration. The program, named BIMSTEC Exchange Program for Young Leaders, was conducted by the MEA in partnership with Art of Living in Bangaluru and Bhubaneswar from April 25-30. More than 70 young leaders from the seven BIMSTEC member countries participated in this initiative.
This event was a direct response to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s commitment at the sixth BIMSTEC Summit in Bangkok to enhance youth exchanges within the Bay of Bengal region. The focus of the program was on structured leadership development, exposure to regional issues, and the opportunity to collaboratively create solutions. Participants were immersed in an environment that emphasized applied learning and innovation, enabling them to experiment and co-create in a practical and holistic manner.
India’s proactive step towards sustainable regional cooperation within its neighborhood was further emphasized through this initiative. The country aims to lay the groundwork for nurturing future-ready regional leaders by integrating inner well-being with leadership skills, systems thinking, collaborative problem-solving, and community engagement. In a similar vein, India had previously hosted a BIMSTEC Young Leaders’ Summit in September 2025, aligning with Prime Minister Modi’s 21-point action plan to bolster the group.
