Change in mindset needed to eradicate poverty, illiteracy:VP

Observing that poverty,illiteracy and social evils like discrimination against women are continuing in the country even after 70 years of Independence, Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu today said a change in mindset is required to eradicate the ills.

"70 years after Independence, still 25 per cent are below the poverty line. Illiteracy is there. Discrimination against women is still being shown in some places. Untouchability is still there in some places," he said.

"A change in the way of thinking is needed in society to face these challenges.I have been in public life for 40 years. We need to make people aware and think. This is not the work of politicians alone. Others should also do," he said.

Naidu stressed on the importance of inclusive growth, making all citizens feel that they are partners in progress.

He was speaking at the distribution of certificates to trainees of a skill development course at the Swarna Bharat Trust here.

Quoting Swami Vivekananda, he said the youth can achieve wonders if they are put on the right path and given encouragement.

Observing that it is not possible for governments to provide jobs to all, he said the youth should try to become entrepreneurs so that they can employ themselves and also provide employment to all.

Naidu said he would like to extensively tour the country, visiting IITs, IIMS, universities and other educational and research institutions to reach out to the youth and motivate them to work towards constructive goals.

A statue of Swami Vivekananda was unveiled in the premises of Swarna Bharat Trust.

The Vice President felicitated D Anudeep, the topper in the 2017 civil services examination.

Telangana Deputy Chief Minister Md Mahmood Ali, MLAs K Laxman, G Kishan Reddy, Prakash Goud, renowned Telugu film actor Nagarjuna, bureaucrat-turned-politician and former MLA Jayaprakash Narayan were present on the occasion.