President urges to bring the fruit of development to the poor

During the 150th anniversary celebration of Young Men’s Christian Association (YMCA) in New Delhi, President Pratibha Patel stressed on the need to support the development efforts of the government and bring the fruits of development to the unreached sections of the society.

Congratulating the association for its commendable work in the field of community service during the 150 years of YMCA movement in India, Ms Patil said, more voluntary organizations and NGO's must come forward to fight the social evils of the society and educate and sensitize the neglected sections of the society.

While lauding the contribution of the NGOs in bringing succour to the victims of natural calamities, the President urged NGOs to promote disaster preparedness and disaster management.

Emphasizing the need to motivate youths, the President said, “A holistic approach towards the development of youth is extremely necessary for preparing them to undertake service towards humanity. India is a country of young people with 54 per cent of its population in the age group below 25 years."

It is heartening to note YMCAs promoting the extracurricular activities such as sports among the youth. Sports encourage team spirit and help to accept success and failures with dignity, added President Patil.

YMCA national president J.Alexander earlier, in his welcome address said, “Our Master has urged us to give to God what is God’s and to Caesar what is Caesar’s. So YMCA offers praise and adoration to God Almighty; and gives unstinted service to our country.”