Today is International Youth Day. The day gives an opportunity to celebrate and mainstream young peoples’ voices, actions and initiatives, as well as their meaningful, universal and equitable engagement. In 1999, the United Nations General Assembly endorsed the recommendation made by the World Conference of Ministers Responsible for Youth that 12rh August be declared International Youth Day. The theme of this year is Youth Engagement for Global Action.

Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu has urged young people across the world to be active change agents in building a more equitable and sustainable world. He appealed to youth in India to be at the forefront of eradicating various social evils like caste and gender discrimination. Mr Naidu called upon them to pledge to strive hard to realise the dreams of our freedom fighters.

He called upon them to build a New India that is free of poverty, illiteracy, corruption and provides equal opportunities to all.

Information and Broadcasting Minister Prakash Javadekar said, the day offers a chance to raise awareness of the need to ensure the engagement and participation of youth.