The Hindu : New Delhi News : “Development joint task of Government, society”

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Saturday, Sep 29, 2007
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New Delhi

“Development joint task of Government, society”

Staff Reporter

President inaugurates YMCA’s 150th anniversary function

Photo: PTI

A landmark: President Pratibha Patil with national president of National Council of YMCAs of India J. Alexander (left) and YMCA world president Martin Meizner in New Delhi on Friday during the 150th anniversary celebrations of the YMCA movement in India.

NEW DELHI: Referring to large sections of society, especially in rural areas, where the fruits of growth have not reached, President Pratibha Patil on Friday said there is a need to make the development process more “equitable”.

Addressing a special function to mark the 150th anniversary celebrations of Young Men’s Christian Association (YMCA), Delhi, Ms. Patil said development should be seen as a joint task of the Government and the society at large.

“The Government is undertaking a number of schemes for poverty eradication, employment generation, rural development, education and health. Government efforts need to be supported by voluntary agencies and civil society. They can work with the Government in the social sectors and with the less privileged sections of society as well as in the less developed areas of the country to take India forward on the path of overall progress,” she said.

Quoting Swami Vivekananda, the President said his words should become a source of inspiration for NGOs and voluntary agencies involved in community service. Community service is essential for building better societies and requires a spirit to work not merely for one’s own sake but also for the welfare of others, she added.

She urged individuals and organisations involved in rendering social service to work selflessly and motivate the youth to do the same. “A holistic approach towards the development of youth is extremely necessary for preparing them to undertake service towards humanity. India is a country of young people with 54 per cent of its population in the age group below 25 years.”

Pointing out that the youth in the country are “clearly destined to play a major role in the future of India”, the President said: “It is important to inculcate the right values in them and nurture the mental, physical and spiritual aspects of their personality.”

YMCA is celebrating its 150 years by organising a three-day function that will include cultural programmes and also focus on future strategies to make the organisation socially relevant.

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