Turn challenges posed by COVID-19 pandemic into opportunities, Venakaiah Naidu tells youth

Addressing the gathering after the presentation of certificates to the trainees at Swarna Bharat Trust, Vijayawada, the Vice President underlined that while the pandemic has impacted many sectors, it has also opened avenues in many others.

Noting that more than 65 per cent of the population is under the age of 35, Naidu reiterated that if "we can utilize these human resources, youth and women can become key partners in furthering our nation’s growth. With these great human resources, we can shape the future world."

In this regard, he recalled various efforts of the State and Central governments to up-skill the youth and called for intensification of these programmes. Emphasising that skilling must be in tune with the 21st century needs, the Vice President called for private participation in this field.

Stressing that the GDP growth is not the sole indicator for a country’s progress, Naidu said that people’s empowerment is the real progress.

He also emphasised that "we must invest and formulate policies with long term benefits rather than focusing on short term gains."

Talking about the ongoing pandemic, the Vice President observed that health is much more important than wealth and pandemic has proved this once again. Noting that the death rate in India is far less compared to other countries, Naidu called upon people to adopt a healthy lifestyle.

While distributing the certificates to trainees on completion of their courses, Naidu appreciated the students for having utilised the online learning tools well during the lockdown period.

He also commended the efforts of Swarna Bharat Trust for empowering women and youth through skill development and helping the needy during the lockdown period. The event was attended by trainees and staff of Swarna Bharat Trust, Vijayawada.