Agartala, September 11: Tripura Chief Minister Prof. (Dr.) Manik Saha on Friday stressed the need to nurture a disciplined, physically active and socially responsible younger generation, urging youth to follow the ideals of Swami Vivekananda and Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose.
Saha was speaking at a programme held at the Netaji Subhash Regional Coaching Centre (NSRCC) in Agartala, where he unveiled statues of Swami Vivekananda and Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose. A mega blood donation camp was also organised during the programme, with nearly 100 voluntary donors participating.
Highlighting the importance of voluntary service, Saha said blood donation should be viewed as a responsibility towards society rather than merely a humanitarian activity. He encouraged healthy citizens, particularly young people, to donate blood regularly and inspire others to do the same.
“Blood has no artificial substitute,” the Chief Minister said, underlining the continuing need for blood for thalassemia patients, accident victims and those undergoing major medical procedures.
He said voluntary blood donation plays an important role in supporting patients during emergencies while also creating a stronger culture of compassion and community participation. Saha appreciated the donors for voluntarily coming forward for the cause.
The Chief Minister also expressed concern over the growing dependence of children and young people on mobile phones and digital technology. He called upon parents to encourage children to take part in outdoor games and sporting activities from an early age.
According to Saha, sports should not be viewed only as a means of maintaining physical fitness. Regular participation in games helps youngsters develop discipline, teamwork, leadership skills and confidence, he said.
Saha further highlighted Tripura’s sporting potential and stressed the need to provide young athletes with improved infrastructure and adequate opportunities to pursue their talents.
The statues of Vivekananda and Netaji were unveiled as symbols of patriotism, youth empowerment and service to the nation. Saha said the lives and ideals of the two national icons continue to hold relevance for the younger generation.
He urged young people to draw inspiration from their values and work towards making meaningful contributions to society and the country.
The programme combined messages on physical fitness, sports, voluntary blood donation and national consciousness. The Chief Minister said initiatives encouraging young people to participate in community service and healthy activities could play an important role in building a stronger and more responsible society.
Agartala Municipal Corporation Mayor Dipak Majumder and other dignitaries attended the programme.
The event concluded with an appeal for greater participation of youth in sports, blood donation and other social initiatives, with emphasis on building a generation rooted in discipline, service and responsibility.
