Tamil Nadu - Chennai

Youth urged to build a strong India

— Photo: V. Ganesan

FELICITATION: Governor S.S. Barnala with the Manipur team that won the first prize in folk dance at the 13th National Youth Festival that concluded in Chennai on Wednesday.

CHENNAI: Tamil Nadu Governor S. S. Barnala on Wednesday urged the youth to dedicate themselves to the country’s socio-economic development.

Addressing the closing ceremony of the 13th National Youth Festival, he said the need of the hour was to harness the youth in nation-building. “We are a nation of young people and have youth who are dedicated to the cause of our nation’s development.”

Mr. Barnala reminded the participants that each generation had a social responsibility and commitment to the welfare and development of the nation. While their predecessors a few decades ago joined the freedom struggle, the mission of today’s youth should be to build a strong and united India. He lauded the efforts of the Department of Youth Affairs at empowering the youth by harnessing their potential for socio-economic development.

The Governor said he was convinced that the youth festival, which brought together participants from all over the country, served as a platform for youth to meet, learn and share their talents, while showcasing the cultural heritage of their region.

The Governor gave away the Indira Gandhi NSS Awards to student volunteers, programme officers and coordinators.

He also presented prizes to the winners of various events.

Minister for Environment T. P. M. Mohideen Khan stressed the importance of youth adopting role models. The youth could learn a thing or two from Chief Minister M. Karunanidhi who, even at the age of 84, was indefatigable and diligent, he said.

S. K. Arora, Secretary, Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, and R. Christodas Gandhi, Secretary, Youth Welfare and Sports Development, were present.

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