Chennai, Aug 12 (Mayank Nigam) Averring that the International Youth Day (IYD) underscores the tremendous power of youth, Union Minister for Youth Affairs and Sports and Information and Broadcasting Anurag Singh Thakur on Saturday said they shape India’s future and share the future of peace.” Mr Thakur called upon the youth to share their vision and create awareness, while emphasising the importance of green skills for sustainable development. He was delivering his keynote address at the “ImPact with Youth Conclave” organised by United Nations India, Yuwaah at UNICEF, and the Union Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports here on the eve of IYD, under the theme Igniting Passions & Sparking Change –Amplifying voices and driving change with young people from South Asia. Highlighting the pivotal role of youth, Mr Anurag Thakur said Youth are the custodians and the largest stakeholders. With India being one of the youngest countries globally, our responsibility is unparalleled.
The IYD underscores the tremendous power of the youth…they shape our nation’s future and share the future of peace, he said. Speaking on the evolving job market, Mr Thakur highlighted the rise of Artificial Intelligence and the collective responsibility of youth to influence global narratives and sustainable development goals. Calling for youth’s proactive participation in today’s dynamic world, citing the recent drone policy and the importance of AtmaNirbhar Bharat, the Union Minister urged the youth to adopt a cause and set achievable goals, contributing to India’s nation building efforts. Those present at the conclave included Ms Cynthia McCaffrey, Representative Unicef, and Dhuwarakha Sriram, Chief Yuwaah at Unicef. In her welcome address, Ms Cynthia McCaffrey stressing the United Nations’ celebration of IYD for raising awareness on challenges and opportunities faced by the youth. She commended India’s demographic dividend and urged skilling of Indian youths for 21st-century opportunities. The “ImPact with Youth Conclave” served as a platform to amplify the voices of young individuals, sparking change and driving the progress in South Asia. With a focus on igniting passions, the conclave embodies the spirit of youthful energy, fostering a brighter future.