Speaking during the third plenary session on ‘Gandhian Thought in context of 21st century- A Youth Perspective’ of the Youth Pravasi Bharatiya pas in Gandhinagar today, General V. K. Singh, Minister of State for External and Overseas Indian Affairs, Statistics and Programme Implementation, reminded the youth about the sacrifices made by Mahatma Gandhi and other freedom fighters. Quoting extensively from Gandhiji’s thoughts, General Singh asked the youth to dedicate themselves to the Nation and Society. Minister said that youth aspiring to be the fathers of tomorrow are like the salt of the nation. He reiterated that India is made by the villages, lives in the villages and the villages do not prosper if the country can not develop. He explained that Ahimsa was a tool in the Gandhian Strategy to fight a powerful adversary.
Ms. Maite Nkoana-Mashabane, Minister of International Relations and Co-operation, Republic of South Africa, who spoke during the session, said that Gandhiji made a significant contribution in the struggle against apartheid. Ms. Mashabane said that South Africans are inspired by many lessons from Mahatma Gandhi’s life. She reminded the Indians and South Africans not to take the legacy of Mahatma and Mandela for granted. The youth should be vigilant and ensure that racism does not raise its ugly head.Shri P. V. Rajagopal, Vice Chairman, Gandhi Peace Foundation said that Gandhiji thought is relevant today as it was a century ago.