Jamsaheb Youth Programme: Polish Delegation Completes India Tour

The second edition of the Jamsaheb Memorial Youth Exchange Programme concluded on October 14, 2026. Running from October 7 to 14, the initiative hosted a 19-member Polish youth delegation across Gujarat, Maharashtra, and New Delhi.

The program deepened diplomatic ties through historical visits, cultural workshops, and high-level meetings with top Indian leadership.

Origin of the Youth Exchange Programme

Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced the exchange during his official state visit to Poland in August 2024.

The program forms a key pillar of the Five-Year Action Plan (2024–2028) under the India–Poland Strategic Partnership. The initiative brings Polish youth to India annually to explore the nation's cultural heritage, governance models, and economic development.

Honoring Historical Humanitarian Bonds

The delegation toured two landmark sites in Western India that commemorate India's humanitarian support for Poland during World War II:

1. Balachadi Polish Children’s Camp Memorial (Jamnagar, Gujarat)

The delegation visited Balachadi to honor Maharaja Jam Saheb Digvijaysinhji Ranjitsinhji Jadeja of Nawanagar. During WWII, the Maharaja provided sanctuary, education, and healthcare to over 1,000 displaced Polish children. Poland affectionately remembers him as Dobry Maharaja (The Good Maharaja).

2. Valivade Polish Refugee Camp Memorial (Kolhapur, Maharashtra)

In Kolhapur, delegates paid homage at Valivade, where India hosted thousands of Polish refugees fleeing war-torn Europe.

Cultural Engagement and Leadership Meetings

In addition to historical memorials, the Polish delegates visited Dandi Kutir in Gandhinagar and Kirti Mandir in Porbandar, the birthplace of Mahatma Gandhi.

In New Delhi, the delegation met key Indian ministers to discuss youth diplomacy:

• Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya: Union Minister for Youth Affairs and Sports hosted a dinner and led discussions on expanding youth-led global governance.
• Dr. S. Jaishankar: External Affairs Minister highlighted how youth diplomacy reinforces bilateral cooperation under the Strategic Partnership framework.

Key Program Highlights