Youth power will make India a developed nation by 2047: Governor Shukla
Governor Shiv Pratap Shukla today chaired the closing ceremony of the ‘Viksit Bharat Youth Leadership Dialogue and Drug-Free India Campaign’ held at Sardar Patel University, Mandi. He said that the energy, curiosity and creativity of the youth would make India a developed nation by year-2047.
The Governor said that the role of youth was the most important in fulfilling the resolve of a developed India. Youth play a crucial role in driving the Nation’s dreams forward. He urged the students not to see education only as a path to a career, but as a means for social change, innovation and service towards the Nation. He encouraged them to develop leadership qualities along with discipline in one’s life. Governor stated that India was currently the world’s fourth-largest economy and was on track to overtake Germany by next year to become the third-largest. The rapid growth of start-ups, the digital revolution, advancements in space research and the expansion of infrastructure were all the outcomes and efforts of the youth.
Shri Shukla while emphasizing the drug de-addiction said that drugs harm not only individuals but also their families, society and the progress of the nation. He said there is a deliberate attempt to trap youth in synthetic drugs, and society must come together to stop this. A developed, strong and drug-free India is possible only when youth are aware, disciplined and dedicated. He urged youth to believe in their abilities, use their energy positively, stay away from drugs and help others stay away from them as well.
The Governor said that we must adopt a policy of zero tolerance against drugs. Awareness, open dialogue, family support and the role of educational institutions were extremely important to protect youth from harmful habits. He appealed to students to stay away from drugs and instead engage in sports, yoga, music, art and other positive activities. He said that inspired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, he launched the Drug-Free Himachal campaign, which started from higher educational institutions and has now reached the panchayat level. He also appreciated the strong and meaningful efforts of the State Government in the fight against drugs. He requested the Vice-Chancellor to give priority to yoga and sports activities in the university.
The Governor said that Sardar Patel University has emerged as an important centre of knowledge, research and national awareness and congratulated the university for their dedicated efforts in taking university to new heights.
The Governor also inaugurated a blood donation camp in the university campus and visited a painting exhibition. He also released a book showcasing Sardar Patel’s inspirational journey through photographs.
He also honoured the winners of story writing, speech, painting and poetry competitions organized under the Viksit Bharat and Drug-Free India campaign. Congratulating all the winners, the Governor said that the talent and determination of the youth will certainly shape the direction of a developed India.
Sardar Patel University Vice-Chancellor Prof. Lalit Kumar Awasthi shared the university’s achievements and future plans, and explained the objectives of the Viksit Bharat Youth Leadership Dialogue and Drug-Free India Campaign.
Dean of Student Welfare Rajesh Kumar delivered the welcome address, while Registrar Shashipal Negi proposed the vote of thanks.
MLA and former minister Anil Sharma, Mayor, Virender Bhatt Sharma and other distinguished guests were present on the occasion.
