Agartala, September 11: Tripura Chief Minister Prof. (Dr.) Manik Saha on Friday urged the state’s youth to draw inspiration from Swami Vivekananda and Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose and contribute to society through discipline, patriotism, sports and voluntary service.
Saha made the appeal while unveiling statues of Vivekananda and Netaji at the Netaji Subhash Regional Coaching Centre (NSRCC) in Agartala. A mega blood donation camp was also organised alongside the programme, with nearly 100 people voluntarily donating blood.
Emphasising the importance of blood donation, the Chief Minister described it as a vital social responsibility. He appealed to healthy citizens, particularly young people, to donate blood regularly and motivate others to participate in such humanitarian initiatives.
“Blood has no artificial substitute,” Saha said, pointing to the continuing requirement for blood for thalassemia patients, accident victims and people undergoing major medical treatment.
According to the Chief Minister, voluntary blood donation serves a purpose beyond meeting medical emergencies, as it also promotes compassion, solidarity and a spirit of service among citizens. He expressed appreciation to those who participated in the camp voluntarily.
Saha also highlighted the role of sports in shaping a healthy and disciplined younger generation. Referring to growing dependence on mobile phones and technology, he called upon parents to encourage children to spend more time participating in outdoor games and sporting activities.
He said sports help youngsters develop physical fitness as well as discipline, teamwork, leadership qualities and self-confidence. Tripura, he added, possesses significant sporting potential, and efforts should continue to strengthen sports infrastructure and create better opportunities for emerging athletes.
The unveiling of the statues of Vivekananda and Netaji added a larger motivational dimension to the programme. Their contributions to patriotism, youth awakening and service to the nation were highlighted as values that remain relevant for today’s younger generation.
Saha said the ideals of the two iconic figures could encourage young people to develop a greater sense of responsibility towards society and the country.
The programme brought together the themes of physical fitness, humanitarian service and national consciousness. Organisers stressed that encouraging youth to participate in sports and voluntary activities could help build a healthier, more disciplined and socially responsible generation.
Agartala Municipal Corporation Mayor Dipak Majumder and other dignitaries were present at the programme.
The event concluded with a call for greater youth involvement in sports, blood donation and other community-oriented initiatives aimed at strengthening social responsibility and national spirit.
