AR observes World Youth Skills Day with focus on self-reliance & youth empowerment
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, July 16 2026: Marking World Youth Skills Day, Assam Rifles conducted a series of youth empowerment and community development initiatives across Manipur on July 14 and 15, 2026, under the United Nations theme "Skills for a Shared Future" .

As per a release issued by HQ IGAR(South), the observance aims to highlight the importance of equipping young people with capabilities for employment, decent work and entrepreneurship by combining technical trades with life skills such as communication and problemsolving.

The series began on July 14 at Assam Rifles Public School, Kakching district, with an Intra-School Debate Competition.

Six students debated on "Silence in the face of bullying is as harmful as bullying itself'.

The forum focused on multi-perspective arguments, distinguishing emotional abuse from respectful silence, and building public speaking confidence.

Around 40 students and school panel members witnessed the event, which concluded with a prize distribution ceremony.

On July 15, two skillbuilding programmes were held simultaneously.

In Imphal West district, troops at Longa Koireng organised a drawing competition at the Vocational Guide School, Sangaithel.

Thirty school children participated, showcasing their aspirations through art.

Merit prizes were awarded to encourage creative development.

At the same time, a livelihood enhancement programme was conducted at the Internally Displaced Persons Relief Camp in Kakching district.

The event was attended by 55 residents, including 20 men, 25 women and 10 children.

Sub-Divisional Officer, Kakching, and other district administration representatives also took part.

The initiative promoted traditional skills and modem vocational practices.

Men were trained in carpentry, agriculture and allied farming, house painting and basic electrical work, and were provided with related tools.

Women were engaged in weaving, traditional handicrafts and live bakery demonstrations by the Assam Rifles Bakery to foster entrepreneurship.

Children participated in sports and games, and stationery and sports equipment were distributed to them.

Assam Rifles officials said the programmes aimed to build resilient communities by nurturing both technical and life skills among youth and displaced families.

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