National Youth Day 2026

National Youth Day is celebrated on the 12th of January every year as a tribute to the birth anniversary of a very powerful spiritual guide and philosopher in the country, Swami Vivekananda. In the year 1984, the Government of India made this day an inscription to inspire and motivate the youth by inculcating the ideals of strength, discipline and serving society as propagated by Vivekananda. The activities focus on youth empowerment and leadership, as well as nation-building by ensuring that seminars, cultural programmes, workshops, and youth festivals are conducted nationwide. The day emphasises the crucial role of the young population of India in defining the future and provokes them to be prospective contributors to social progress and national development.

Institutional Significance, Objectives, and Annual Theme

Government of India Recognised: National Youth Day is formally celebrated on January 12 each year to commemorate the birth of Swami Vivekananda, which was established to be celebrated in 1984.

Significance: The day emphasises the importance of young people in the social and national development and instils confidence, discipline, courage, and character.

Main Goal: To introduce the youth to the principles and teachings of Swami Vivekananda to encourage them to understand that they can depend on themselves and become responsible and service-oriented citizens.

Annual Theme 2026: The theme is focused on Ignite the Self, Impact the World, and it is important that the youth ignite the potential in themselves and make a difference in society.

Expected MCQs on National Youth Day

Q1. On which date is National Youth Day observed in India?
A) January 1
B) January 12
C) January 15
D) January 26
Answer: B) January 12
Explanation: Marks the birth anniversary of Swami Vivekananda, celebrated nationwide.

Q2. Who is commemorated through National Youth Day?
A) Mahatma Gandhi
B) Swami Vivekananda
C) Rabindranath Tagore
D) Sardar Patel
Answer: B) Swami Vivekananda
Explanation: The day spreads his teachings of youth empowerment, discipline, and service.

Q3. In which year was National Youth Day officially declared?
A) 1950
B) 1984
C) 1990
D) 2000
Answer: B) 1984
Explanation: The Government of India recognised the day to inspire young people nationwide.

Q4. What is the official theme of National Youth Day 2026?
A) Youth for Innovation
B) Ignite the Self, Impact the World
C) Empowering the Next Generation
D) Knowledge, Strength, Action
Answer: B) Ignite the Self, Impact the World
Explanation: Encourages youth to realise potential and contribute positively to society.

Q5. What is the primary purpose of National Youth Day?
A) Promote sports and culture
B) Inspire youth with Vivekananda’s ideals
C) Celebrate government achievements
D) Organise academic competitions
Answer: B) Inspire youth with Vivekananda’s ideals
Explanation: Focuses on character building, self-confidence, and nation-building among young people.

The National Youth Day 2026 takes place on January 12 to mark the anniversary of the birth of Swami Vivekananda. The youth in India are motivated by the day to follow their ideologies of discipline, courage, and service to society. It fosters leadership, education, and nation-building in the youth with a theme, Ignite the Self, Impact the World.