Volunteerism should be encouraged among youth: Jitendra Singh

Noting that thousands of youth are engaged in the nation building through these organisations, the Minister said values of volunteerism is needed to enhance social well being of both urban and rural masses.

Addressing a programme on volunteering in India at the UN Conference Hall, Singh said the Ministry has several programmes and schemes to propagate the values of volunteerism among both urban and rural youth.

He said the Government is still in the process of formulating the National Youth Policy and sought UN assistance in this regard.

Message of UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon was read out by Lise Grande, UN Resident Coordinator and UNDP Resident Representative, on the occasion.

In his message, the UN Secretary-General said the timeless act of volunteering in the service of others has taken new dimensions in today's digital age.

"Anyone with an Internet connection or a mobile phone can make a difference," he said.

According to the UN, volunteerism plays a significant role in achieving the Millennium Development Goals.

"It plays a healing role by rebuilding trust in a post-conflict society," it said.