Early Times Report JAMMU, Jan 12: On the occasion of National Youth Day, commemorating the 164th birth anniversary of Swami Vivekananda, the Minister for Food, Civil Supplies & Consumer Affairs Transport, Science & Technology Information Technology Youth Services & Sports ARI & Training, Shri Satish Sharma visited IGNOU Regional Centre Jammu today. The Minister was the Chief Guest at the special "Youth Engagement Dialogue" program, aimed at engaging the youth in the nation-building process with the vision of a developed J&K, and a Developed India. The event saw enthusiastic participation from Regional Centre functionaries, students, Coordinators, Programme Incharges, local masses, and other stakeholders of the University. The program focused on character building, leadership, and social responsibility, inspired by the ideals of Swami Vivekananda. In his keynote address, Shri Satish Sharma emphasized that the youth are not merely beneficiaries of development but active stakeholders and co-creators in the journey towards a developed India. He urged the young attendees to embrace the values of self-belief and courage as espoused by Swami Vivekananda. The Minister engaged in a vibrant dialogue with the students, listening to their ideas and innovations regarding governance, culture, and social development. He encouraged them to engage in experiential learning and community service opportunities and stay away from drugs. The event commenced with traditional Deep Prajwalan, and floral tributes to Swami Vivekananda, recognizing his timeless message of "Arise, awake, and stop not till the goal is reached". Dr. Zeba, Assistant Regional Director, compered the event. Dr. Asha Upadhya, Deputy Director, and Dr. Vikram Singh, Assistant Regional Director, welcomed the Chief Guest with traditional Shawl and Bouquet. Dr. Sandeep Gupta presented the welcome address, and briefed the gathering about the initiatives and achievements of IGNOU Regional Centre Jammu in the year gone by. Shri Satish Sharma commended IGNOU Regional Centre Jammu for its proactive approach to youth empowerment and expressed confidence that the youth of Jammu and Kashmir would play a crucial role in strengthening the country's social, cultural, and economic development. The Regional Director, Dr. Sandeep Gupta, thanked the Minister for his visit, noting that his encouraging words would serve as a significant source of inspiration for the students. The event concluded with a strong message of collective action and commitment towards shaping the destiny of the nation. |