Mysore/Mysuru: Secretary of Rural Literacy and Health Programme (RLHP) Prof. V.K. Jose said that the youths, apart from focusing on their academic progress, should also pledge to contribute for the country’s growth.

He was speaking after inaugurating the ‘National Youth Day’ programme organised by RLHP in association with Post-Graduate section of Mahajana First Grade College at the College premises here recently.

Highlighting the role of  youths in the country’s growth and progress, Prof. Jose said that the youths should watch the ongoing developments regarding climate change, environment protection and other such issues, which are keenly debated across the world. Pointing out that Swami Vivekananda had kept faith in the youth force for taking forward the nation, he said that the youth must work towards realising Vivekananda’s dream of a strong and stable India.

Samajika Nyaya Vedike Regional Head Satish Metri wanted the youths to engage themselves in eradicating inequality, discrimination etc., that is deeprooted in the society.

Noting that there are no restrictions for serving the society, he said that service mindedness holds key for social service. Continuing, he said that we can bring about societal change only with the involvement of  youths in large numbers. He called upon the youths to strive for ecological protection and eradication of environmental pollution.

Pooja Bhagavath Memorial Mahajana Post-Graduate Centre Director Dr. C.K. Renukarya, who also spoke, expressed concern over youths falling prey to addictions and bad habits.

Stressing on the need for taking forward the youths in the right direction, he attributed bad habits for the youths failure to achieve success in life. He called upon the youths to shun bad habits and to work towards  bringing about a positive change in the society.

In all, 12 students of the college took part in the debate held on the topic ‘Whether environment conservation could be done by changing the lifestyle’, as a part of the programme.

RLHP Director Saraswathi, Social Work Department Head Dr. Bhavana & others were present.