Jaipur, Feb. 17 -- Chief minister Bhajan Lal Sharma on Monday called for blending innovation, technology and India's rich knowledge traditions in the modern education system to boost youth employability and character building. He stressed that such an integrated approach aligns with the state government's commitment to enhancing higher education quality and making it more employment-oriented. Addressing the inaugural session of the All India Institutional Leadership Conclave-2026 at Rajasthan International Centre, Sharma advocated an education model that fuses tradition with modernity. "We need an education system where the wisdom of the Vedas coexists with artificial intelligence, Sanskrit shlokas with coding languages, and yoga and meditation with robotics and nanotechnology," he said. On the conclave theme, 'Dialogue on Inter-Institutional Development,' he emphasised collaboration among IITs, central and state universities, research institutes and private institutions to drive tangible change. More than 65% of India's population is under 35, positioning the country as the world's youngest nation and a key driver towards a developed India by 2047, Sharma noted. He urged stakeholders to harness this demographic dividend in line with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's 'Viksit Bharat 2047' vision, while nurturing young Indians' global success in startups, research, sports and arts-keeping them rooted in Indian values. The state government is bolstering digital infrastructure in higher education alongside research and innovation, Sharma said. It has made over one lakh government appointments, with recruitment underway for more than 154,000 lakh posts and a calendar released for another one lakh this year. Over two lakh youths have gained private-sector jobs, 350,000 students received skill training, and more than 200,000 secured internships. Sharma highlighted 351 leak-free examinations conducted during the current government's tenure. Youth empowerment initiatives include 65 i-Startup Launchpad Nests, 17 new Khelo India centres, 71 new government colleges, buildings for 185 colleges and distribution of around 40,000 scooters to girl students. Deputy chief minister Prem Chand Bairwa said the conclave seeks to fast-track a developed India via institutional collaboration, leadership development and policy innovation. He invoked India's educational heritage-ancient hubs like Nalanda University and Taxila that drew global students-and stressed integrating Indian knowledge traditions amid globalisation. The state, he added, prioritises skill development and practical knowledge in higher education to unlock employment opportunities for youth....