National Students Day 2025: The Founding of ABVP, History, Significance, and More

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National Students Day 2025: National Students Day is celebrated on July 9th in India, a date that is especially significant for the student population due to its association with the Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP). July 9th honours the founding of the ABVP, an organization that has had a significant impact on student activism and national discourse in India.

National Students Day History

The celebration of National Students Day on July 9th is directly related to the formation of the Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP) on July 9, 1949.  The ABVP was founded in the immediate aftermath of India’s independence when the country was embarking on an ambitious journey of nation-building. Inspired by Swami Vivekananda’s principles, the organization sought to create a platform for constructive student action and channel youth energy towards national regeneration.

Founded in 1948 on the suggestion of RSS leader Balraj Madhok, the ABVP was formally registered on July 9, 1949. Its original objective was to oppose communist influence in universities. It expanded substantially throughout the decades, reaching colleges and universities across the country.

National Students Day Significance

• National Students Day emphasizes the concept that students are not just future citizens, but also active and responsible citizens in the present. It emphasizes their ability to effect positive social change and make a meaningful contribution to national growth.

• It emphasises the historical and ongoing significance of student organizations in addressing educational, social, and political concerns. The day encourages kids to engage in constructive debate, express their concerns, and strive for a better future.

• The day serves as an opportunity for organizations like the ABVP to reaffirm their dedication to educational reforms, holistic development, and ensuring accessible and high-quality education for everyone.

• The basic purpose behind this day is to urge students to devote themselves to the causes of national unity, cultural preservation, and societal improvement.

Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP)

The Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP) is one of India’s largest student organisations, with millions of members spread throughout several educational institutions.

Founding and Ideology

The ABVP was created on July 9, 1949, with the goal of instilling nationalist, cultural, and social consciousness among students. While it claims to be independent of any political party, it is commonly recognized as the student branch of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) and philosophically connected with the Sangh Parivar.

ABVP Key Figures

Yashwantrao Kelkar, a Bombay lecturer, is widely recognized as “the real architect of the ABVP,” having played a key role in the organization’s formation and expansion in the late 1950s. Many notable Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) politicians, including present Home Minister Amit Shah and former Finance Minister Arun Jaitley, trace their ideological roots to the ABVP.

ABVP Initiatives

Student Union Elections

It competes in student body elections in colleges and universities throughout India.

Educational Advocacy

The organization promotes educational reforms, quality education, and handles a variety of student-related concerns.

Social and National Campaigns

The ABVP runs several programs aimed at national integration, rural development, environmental protection, and cultural awareness. Initiatives such as “Students for Development (SFD)” and “Think India” highlight its multidimensional commitment.

Addressing Societal Challenges

Historically, the ABVP has been involved in a variety of movements, including those against corruption and price increases in the 1970s.

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