International Youth Day : Bhalla notes potential of youth
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, August 12 2025: Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla has stated that youth should be given more attention and encouragement, as they have the potential to bring about transformative change.

The Governor graced the observance of International Youth Day 2025 held at the City Convention Centre, Palace Compound, here, today.

The day observed under the theme 'Local Youth Action for SDGs and Beyond' was organised by the Manipur State AIDS Control Society.

Addressing the function as chief guest, AK Bhalla highlighted the importance of the event, stating that youth action is crucial for achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and addressing global challenges like climate change and health crises.

Empowering youth at the community level, he noted, is essential as they are agents of change who can innovate and inspire their peers to find solutions to pressing issues.

On the mission to eliminate HIV/AIDS, the Governor said that Manipur has the third-highest prevalence rate in the North East States.

He said that eradicating diseases like HIV/AIDS and TB requires collective effort and support from the public.

He stressed that raising awareness about HIV/AIDS and TB is important, and social media can play a key role in disseminating information to the younger generation.

Appealing to the people to break the stigma associated with HIV/AIDS and TB, he encouraged individuals to come forward for early treatment without fear or shame.

The Governor also launched a two-month Intensified IEC Campaign and flagged off a bike rally, said a press release from Raj Bhavan.

During the event, the Governor also distributed AI-assisted portable X-ray machines, which will be used for TB screening.

These machines were distributed under the Pradhan Mantri TB Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan scheme.

Chief Secretary Puneet Kumar Goel and Family Welfare Commissioner Sumant Singh also attended the programme as special guest and functional president respectively.

Puneet Kumar Goel said the campaign is being undertaken to change mindsets, build trust, and protect the dignity and rights of individuals affected by HIV/AIDS.

Awareness and literacy are being promoted through activities in schools, villages, hospitals, and health camps so that stigma and discrimination can be replaced with understanding and solidarity, he said and appealed to all stakeholders to work collectively to transform awareness into action, replace stigma with solidarity, and turn silence into support.

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