HN Sharma meets Cabinet Secretary to discuss social development initiatives

HN Sharma, former Political Secretary to the late Prime Minister Chandra Shekhar, met Cabinet Secretary TV Somanathan in New Delhi to discuss how the late Prime Minister Chandra Shekhar Trust and associated societies can contribute to the country’s social development agenda.

Sharma briefed the Cabinet Secretary on the Trust’s proposed and ongoing initiatives in rural development, youth empowerment, skill development and upskilling for employment generation, as well as support for people requiring cancer-related treatment and care. He emphasised strengthening community-level programmes and creating sustainable opportunities for young people, particularly in rural and economically disadvantaged areas.

The discussion covered challenges including unemployment, rural distress and growing stress in urban communities. Sharma stressed the need for a coordinated approach involving the Government, political parties, civil society and other stakeholders to address these concerns.

Recalling Chandra Shekhar’s legacy, Sharma highlighted his consistent focus on youth, students and their aspirations, both inside and outside Parliament. He said the late Prime Minister believed that the concerns of young people must remain central to national policymaking, a perspective that remains relevant amid continuing concerns over education, employment and opportunities.

Sharma also drew a broader connection between Chandra Shekhar’s vision and the Government’s Viksit Bharat 2047 vision of building a developed, inclusive and self-reliant India. He noted that the emphasis on human development, empowered youth, rural progress, employment and social justice reflected several priorities associated with Chandra Shekhar’s public life.

He underlined the importance of constructive engagement between the Government and Opposition, despite political differences, to find practical solutions to issues affecting citizens.

Sharma said the Trust would work in a constructive, non-political manner to complement Government efforts in employment, skills, healthcare and rural development, inspired by Chandra Shekhar’s commitment to social justice, democratic values and the welfare of disadvantaged communities.