Bimstec youth leadership programme inaugurated in Bengaluru to strengthen regional cooperation
Designed as a three-to-four-month mentorship programme, it is jointly guided by the Art of Living and the Ministry of External Affairs, with the objective of converting ideas into actionable, community-based development projects.
A six-day Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (Bimstec) Youth Leadership Exchange Program was inaugurated on 25 April 2026 in Bengaluru, marking a new initiative aimed at strengthening regional cooperation through youth engagement and leadership development.
The Bimstec region, home to over 1.7 billion people and a combined GDP of around $5 trillion, continues to be one of the most dynamic and diverse geographies in the world, said a press release issued today (29 April).
Rich in civilisational heritage, the region reflects a unique blend of Buddhist and Hindu cultural traditions, including some of the world's most remarkable architectural and historical landmarks.
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Despite its demographic strength and economic potential, Bimstec member countries face persistent challenges such as political instability, brain drain and geopolitical uncertainties.
With one of the youngest populations globally, the region is increasingly seen as being in urgent need of youth-driven leadership to steer its developmental future.
Against this backdrop, Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar and the Art of Living Foundation have identified Bimstec as a priority region and developed a roadmap aimed at nurturing future leaders.
The programme has been launched in partnership with India's Ministry of External Affairs.
The initiative brings together emerging youth leaders and policy practitioners from Bimstec member states.
Designed as a three-to-four-month mentorship programme, it is jointly guided by the Art of Living and the Ministry of External Affairs, with the objective of converting ideas into actionable, community-based development projects.
Speaking at the inauguration, Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar emphasised the need for unity and self-realisation among young leaders.
He noted that just as intra-regional trade and connectivity in Bimstec remain underdeveloped, the region's human potential is also significantly underutilised.
He urged participants to awaken their inner capabilities to drive meaningful change in society.
The programme is structured around four core thematic areas, conflict resolution, entrepreneurship and youth-led innovation, addressing emerging technological disruptions such as artificial intelligence, and strengthening regional ties through culture and heritage.
The Art of Living Foundation highlighted that the initiative is rooted in the philosophy of seva (selfless service), integrating inner well-being with leadership development.
The approach aims to build emotional resilience and foster leadership qualities based on empathy, inclusiveness and compassion.
Organisers noted that future policymakers emerging from the programme are expected to make decisions grounded in consensus-building and humanitarian values.
With nearly 60% of Bimstec's population under the age of 35, the initiative is positioned as a timely intervention to empower the region's youth and reshape its leadership landscape.
The programme reflects a broader vision of leadership development centred on inner strength, clarity and compassion, with the aim of unlocking the region's untapped potential and strengthening cooperation across Bimstec member states.
