Research Heights

A Movement of Knowledge, Innovation & Sustainability for a Rising Telangana & Viksit Bharat @2047.

The Youth & IT SDG Walk 2047, organized by Research Heights Foundation (RHF) in collaboration with the Telangana Council of Higher Education (TGCHE), transformed Necklace Road, Hyderabad, into a vibrant sea of youth energy, purpose, and hope on 1st November 2025.

With over 10,000 participants - including students, NSS and NCC cadets, IT professionals, educators, Policy Makers, eminent Scientists & Leaders and NGOs - the event reflected the power of youth and their collective commitment to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and advancing the vision of Rising Telangana and Viksit Bharat @2047.

Welcome Address

Dr. Nagendra Kukkadapu, Founder & Director, RHF

The event commenced with a warm and inspiring Welcome Address by Dr. Nagendra Kukkadapu, Founder & Director of Research Heights Foundation (RHF). Dr. Nagendra set the tone for the day with his heartfelt words, highlighting the importance of youth engagement, innovation, and collective responsibility in shaping the nation's sustainable future.

He spoke about RHF's vision to build bridges between academia, industry, and government through purposeful initiatives like the Youth & IT SDG Walk 2047. His message - "When education, technology, and youth unite, transformation becomes unstoppable" - resonated deeply with every participant. His address energized the gathering and laid a strong foundation for the historic event that followed.

Address by His Excellency, the Hon'ble Governor of Telangana

Empowering Youth for Nation Building - Viksit Bharat @2047

The event gained momentum with an inspiring address by the Hon'ble Governor of Telangana, Shri Jishnu Dev Varma, who graced the gathering and shared his powerful insights on the role of youth and educational institutions in shaping India's future.

He emphasized that NEP 2020 and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are the guiding forces for India's academic and developmental transformation. The Governor highlighted how initiatives like the Youth & IT SDG Walk 2047 are vital in nurturing awareness, responsibility, and innovation among the youth - the true architects of Viksit Bharat @2047.

He also appreciated the Research Heights Foundation (RHF) for conceptualizing and executing a visionary event that bridges academia, industry, and social responsibility. He commended Telangana's proactive contribution toward national development and urged every young citizen to take ownership of India's sustainable growth journey.

Flag-Off: A Symbol of Unity and Action

Following the Governor's address, the Youth & IT SDG Walk 2047 was officially flagged off by the Hon'ble Governor himself. In a historic and heartwarming gesture, he walked alongside the students, IT professionals, and faculty members, symbolizing unity between leadership and youth.

The sight was electrifying - a sea of white T-shirts behind the sparkling waters of Hussain Sagar, as the youth of Telangana marched forward with banners of sustainability, innovation, and nation-building. Their chants of "Youth for 2047, Youth for SDG!" echoed across Necklace Road, embodying hope, energy, and shared purpose.

Reassembly at People's Plaza: A Celebration of Spirit

After the inspiring walk, participants gathered once again at People's Plaza, where the spirit of enthusiasm remained undiminished. The entire venue radiated with youthful energy as the academic and IT communities came together to celebrate the success of the movement.

The post-walk sessions began with keynote speeches and thought-provoking insights from eminent leaders and experts

Keynote Address by Shri G. Satish Reddy - Former Chairman, DRDO

The audience was captivated as Shri G. Satish Reddy, Former Chairman of DRDO, took the stage to highlight the power of technology, innovation, and national development. He emphasized that the youth of India are not just participants but pioneers in building the nation's technological future. His insights underscored how innovation-driven research and responsible technology use are the twin engines propelling Viksit Bharat @2047. His words ignited inspiration among the young innovators to transform challenges into opportunities for national progress.

Prof. K. Bala Kista Reddy - Chairman, Telangana State Council of Higher Education (TGCHE)

Prof. K. Bala Kista Reddy, Chairman of Telangana State Council of Higher Education (TGCHE), delivered an inspiring address on the role of educational institutions in empowering students and transforming Telangana into a model state for the nation. He emphasized that education should go beyond academic achievement - it should instill confidence, social responsibility, and innovation in every learner. Prof. Reddy applauded the synergy between academia and initiatives like the Youth & IT SDG Walk 2047, reinforcing how collective academic excellence can make Telangana a true role model for educational transformation and youth empowerment in India.

Dr. Jayaprakash Narayan's Call for Responsible Citizenship

Renowned thinker and reformist Dr. Jayaprakash Narayan (JP Narayan) delivered a thought-provoking message that resonated with every participant. He urged the youth to rise beyond comfort zones and actively engage in shaping India's governance and future. His address emphasized citizen-led change, transparency, and ethical leadership as the cornerstones of a strong democracy. Dr. Narayan's impassioned words - "The future of India depends not on its rulers, but on its responsible citizens" - echoed across People's Plaza, reminding everyone that progress begins with accountability and participation.

Shri Guntha Laxman on Aligning Education with National Goals

Shri Guntha Laxman, Joint Organizing Secretary of Akhil Bharatiya Rashtriya Shaikshik Mahasangh (ABRSM), delivered a deeply engaging and insightful talk on the pivotal role of educational institutions in nation-building. He emphasized that true progress lies in integrating SDG and NEP 2020 goals within academic frameworks, empowering faculty and students to drive measurable societal impact. His words inspired educators to move beyond conventional teaching and instill a sense of patriotic purpose in every learner, ensuring that education becomes the true engine of transformation.

Prashanth Nandella - President, HYSEA (Hyderabad Software Enterprises Association)

Prashanth Nandella, President of HYSEA, shared his perspective on how technology and youth leadership can shape the future of India's innovation ecosystem. He highlighted Telangana's emergence as a hub of digital excellence and entrepreneurial spirit, and how the synergy between industry, academia, and youth can accelerate national growth. His address celebrated Telangana's pride in nurturing world-class tech leaders and called on the next generation to take forward the legacy of innovation, integrity, and sustainable progress.

Krishnakumari Palle (KK) - Senior Vice President, Global Delivery Head, Tech Mahindra

Krishnakumari Palle (KK), Senior Vice President and Global Delivery Head at Tech Mahindra, delivered a dynamic and empowering address on the importance of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the critical role youth can play in achieving them. She demonstrated how sustainability and technology must go hand in hand to drive inclusive growth and innovation. With passion and clarity, she encouraged students and professionals to act decisively - reminding everyone that "every small action counts when it comes to building a sustainable planet." Her talk was a rallying call for youth to lead with responsibility, creativity, and compassion.

Heartfelt Vote of Thanks - Dr. Nagendra Kukkadapu, Founder & Director of Research Heights Foundation

The event culminated with a heartfelt Vote of Thanks by Dr. Nagendra Kukkadapu, Founder & Director of Research Heights Foundation (RHF). With deep gratitude, he acknowledged the Hon'ble Governor, distinguished guests, education leaders, industry partners, and the thousands of students who made this monumental event possible.

Dr. Nagendra reflected on RHF's journey and reaffirmed its commitment to empowering youth, driving sustainability, and fostering innovation-led collaborations between academia and industry. His closing words - "The walk ends here, but the movement for a sustainable, innovative, and empowered Bharat begins today" - left the audience inspired and united under one shared vision.

A Walk That Sparked a Movement

The Youth & IT SDG Walk 2047 was not merely an event - it evolved into a national movement of awareness, unity, and purpose. It showcased the boundless energy of youth, the vision of educators, and the determination of technologists working together for a common cause.

The walk may have concluded, but its mission continues - fueling a generation of changemakers, innovators, and leaders who will carry India forward toward Viksit Bharat @2047.

SDG - Ecosystem Partners

TGCHE

We Hub

HYSEA

NABARD

HMDA

Panchayat Raj and Rural Development