Chief Minister Professor (Dr) Manik Saha on Monday emphasised that education alone is not enough for the youth, and called upon them to actively engage in the service of humanity, society and the nation to build a strong and progressive country.Inaugurating the state-level National Youth Festival at Nazrul Kalakshetra, the Chief Minister said a strong society is the foundation of a strong nation, and the youth play the most decisive role in shaping the country’s future. Quoting Swami Vivekananda, he said the confidence, character and contribution of the youth determine the destiny of a nation.Dr Saha said the objective of observing National Youth Day is to instil patriotism, national consciousness and social responsibility among young people, while spreading the ideals of Swami Vivekananda to the younger generation. Describing Swamiji as a pioneer of awakening and a visionary leader, he said his thoughts, philosophy and love for the nation remain highly relevant even in the present times.Addressing the gathering, the Chief Minister said youth is the most valuable phase of life, when inner strength, talent and potential are shaped. He urged young people to adopt Swami Vivekananda’s ideals in their daily lives, stating that true observance of Youth Day lies in discipline, genuine education, service to mankind and devotion to the nation. Quoting Swami Vivekananda’s message, “Service to mankind is service to God,” Dr Saha said meaningful human life is achieved through selfless service.The Chief Minister also highlighted Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s initiatives aimed at empowering the youth, inspired by Swami Vivekananda’s philosophy. He said the Prime Minister has prioritised youth participation in technology, digital innovation, startups, sports and entrepreneurship, creating new opportunities for growth and self-reliance.Dr Saha said the Tripura government is also implementing multiple initiatives to make the youth self-reliant through skill development, training programmes, startup support, youth entrepreneurship schemes, sports and education. He added that these efforts are helping Tripura move forward on the path of overall development. Calling upon the youth to remain confident and hardworking, he said a strong and capable youth force is essential to realise the vision of a “Developed India by 2047.” He also extended greetings to all on the occasion of the 163rd National Youth Day.Earlier, Sports Minister Tinku Roy, in his welcome address, said National Youth Day is being observed across the country and that Prime Minister Narendra Modi would interact with youth representatives in New Delhi on the occasion. He added that both the state and central governments are working towards building a self-reliant nation and state by harnessing the power of youth.The programme was attended by Youth Affairs and Sports Department Secretary Dr P.K. Chakraborty, Director L. Darlong, MY Bharat State Director Bimal Kumar Saha and other dignitaries. At the beginning of the event, the Chief Minister and guests paid floral tributes to Swami Vivekananda’s portrait.During the programme, NSS and Scouts and Guides volunteers who received the President’s Award, medal-winning athletes under the Chief Minister’s Talent Search and Sports Development schemes, and clubs that made significant contributions to the anti-drug awareness campaign were felicitated with mementoes by the Chief Minister and other dignitaries.
