Dibrugarh: Union minister of ports, shipping and waterways Sarbananda Sonowal emphasised that Assamese youth must cultivate a robust work culture to reinforce the ongoing fight against infiltration and protect the state’s unique identity, culture and national security.Addressing a youth convention organised by the Bharatiya Janata Yuva Morcha at Tingkhong in Dibrugarh on Sunday, Sonowal stressed that the collective strength of youth, when channelled with discipline and purpose, possesses the power to shape history.“When the qualities within the youth are brought together, energy is generated, and from that energy arises the resolve to conquer the world,” Sonowal said before an audience of senior BJP leaders, party office-bearers and youth representatives.The Union minister highlighted India’s global recognition as a youth-driven nation and called upon young people to match the capabilities of their counterparts in developed countries. “In this competitive era of science and technology, our youth must move forward on par with the youth of developed nations. Under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Amrit Kaal vision, India aims to become one of the world’s leading economies by 2047, and our youth must play a leading role in achieving this goal,” he said.Sonowal urged the youth to remain committed to protecting Assam’s indigenous communities, culture, land, heritage and language. Drawing a historical parallel, he said, “Just as Lachit Borphukan proved his excellence and defended the existence of our civilisation, today’s Assamese youth must demonstrate their capabilities and establish their excellence on the global stage.”The minister also called upon young people to make effective use of govt schemes for youth empowerment while maintaining discipline, focus and sincerity. He emphasised that Assam’s rich natural, forest, water and human resources, if properly utilised, could propel the state to unprecedented development.Sonowal alleged that Congress had facilitated infiltration into Assam in the past and urged vigilance on national security issues. Referring to Congress leader Gaurav Gogoi’s alleged Pakistan connections, he said, “Now, Gaurav Gogoi must prove his innocence. Any individual involved in conspiracies against the nation deserves condemnation. The Government of India will not forgive any force that acts against the country.”The Union minister also appealed to youth to stay away from substance abuse and preserve Assam’s proud history for future generations.
