PM in Katra

•Inaugurates Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Narayana Super Speciality Hospital
•Delivers Convocation Address at Shri Mata Vaishno Devi University
•Inaugurates Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board Sports Complex
•Addresses Public Meeting

The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi, visited Katra, in Jammu and Kashmir today.

He inaugurated the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Narayana Super Speciality Hospital, and delivered the Convocation Address at the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi University.

The Prime Minister exhorted the students to always remember that one of the sources of funding for this University, was the donation made by poor pilgrims at the shrine of Mata Vaishno Devi. He said that the students should also take a pledge to do something for the poor.

He said that the nation is scaling new heights, and with a youthful population, there is a lot that can be achieved. He said the 21st century is the century of knowledge, and whenever there has been an era of knowledge, India has shown the way.

The Prime Minister appreciated the girl students for performing exceedingly well academically. He also recalled the feat of Dipa Karmakar, who has become the first Indian woman to qualify for an Olympics gymnastics competition.

The Prime Minister later inaugurated the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board Sports Complex, and addressed a public meeting. He appreciated the Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir, Ms. Mehbooba Mufti, for her energetic leadership, and for the enthusiasm with which she spoke of the future of the State of Jammu and Kashmir. He also recalled the former Chief Minister of the State, Shri Mufti Mohammad Sayeed.

Referring to the Sports Complex, he said that sports is extremely important to build sportsman spirit in society. He also mentioned the FIFA Under-17 World Cup that will be hosted by India in 2017, and said this should be an opportunity for us to celebrate sports.

The Prime Minister recalled Shri Atal Bihari’s vision for Jammu and Kashmir – Insaniyat, Jamhooriyat, and Kashmiriyat. He said that every effort would be made to work towards the development of the State, keeping in mind this vision.

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PM condemns the attack in Kabul; extends condolences to the bereaved families

The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi has condemned the attack in Kabul. The Prime Minister has extended condolences to the bereaved families.

"I condemn the attack in Kabul and extend my condolences to bereaved families. Prayers with the injured for a speedy recovery", the Prime Minister said.

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PM greets the nation on Mahavir Jayanti

The Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has greeted the people on the occasion of Mahavir Jayanti.

"On Mahavir Jayanti, we recall the pure thoughts & ideals of Lord Mahavir & reaffirm our commitment towards a harmonious & peaceful society", the Prime Minister said.

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PM exhorts official youth organizations to join hands for water conservation

The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi, on Monday reviewed the functioning of official youth organizations, including the NCC, NSS, Bharat Scouts and Guides, Indian Red Cross Society, and NYKS.

In the course of the two hour meeting, the Prime Minister repeatedly stressed the need for better coordination and synergy among these organizations.

Discussing the immediate tasks ahead, where these organizations could play an important role, the Prime Minister said that in the next couple of months, there would be a massive effort under MGNREGA for water conservation and storage mechanisms. He urged these youth organizations to mobilize to the greatest extent possible, to dovetail and contribute to these efforts.

As the representatives for the youth organizations explained their functioning and role in society, the Prime Minister gave several other inputs and suggestions. In particular, he mentioned the tasks of Swachhta, creation of open-defecation free clusters, and inculcation of a fresh national spirit among the youth, as key objectives that the youth organizations should strive for. He mentioned the Government's Mission Indradhanush initiative to reach the unvaccinated children, and said youth organizations can aid in this initiative.

The Prime Minister also called for synergy among various initiatives and programmes organized on National Youth Day on January 12th, so that a more meaningful impact could be achieved. He asked official youth organizations to keep a more active presence on social media, to generate a wider appeal, and better connect with the youth.

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