Youth Engagement & Empowerment Action Plan discussed in Kathua

• DC calls for coordinated efforts to channelize youth energy through skill, sports and self-employment initiatives

KATHUA: Deputy Commissioner Kathua Rajesh Sharma today chaired a meeting of the stakeholder departments to discuss the Youth Engagement and Empowerment Action Plan aimed at creating opportunities for holistic development of youth in the district.

Speaking at the meeting, the DC asked the stakeholder departments to converge their efforts to generate awareness among youth about the government welfare and skill development schemes. He said that coordinated efforts are essential to guide youth in choosing suitable development pathways and to encourage their participation in nation-building initiatives.

The DC called upon departments to organise camps, counselling sessions and vocational training programmes in collaboration with Mission Yuva framework, Employment, Skill Development and Rural Development Departments. He further stressed the inclusion of initiatives from agriculture and allied sectors, handicrafts, handloom, art and craft fields to promote entrepreneurship and self-employment among youth.

Special emphasis was laid on engaging youth in sports and fitness activities by strengthening sports infrastructure and promoting participation through clubs, tournaments and community-level events. The DC directed the Youth Services and Sports Department to formulate a calendar of activities to ensure regular engagement of youth across all blocks.

The meeting also discussed measures to establish effective linkages with educational institutions, NGOs and other community-based organizations for mobilizing youth participation and sustaining momentum under the action plan. Among others, SSP Kathua, ADC Kathua, PO ICDS, CPO, CEO, DYSSO, DIO and other concerned officers attended the meeting.