National conference of ABVP begins in Ahmedabad
Ahmedabad, Dec 27 : Prime Minister Narendra Modi Thursday praised the ABVP, the RSS' student wing, for taking up issues related to national interest and those concerning youths in a vocal and constructive manner.
In a written message to the 64th national conference of the Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP) that began here, he congratulated its delegates for "being a part of building a New India".
Former ISRO Chairman A S Kiran Kumar inaugurated the four-day conference in the presence of Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani.
During the December 27-30 meet, being held at Sabarmati Riverfront, ABVP delegates from across the country will discuss various social and educational issues, said a release by the student body.
In his inaugural address, Kumar highlighted the achievements of the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) and called upon youths to contribute towards nation building, said the release.
In his message, Modi appreciated the ABVP for "taking up various issues related to national interest, youths and students and discussing them in a vocal and constructive manner".
Apart from around 3,700 ABVP delegates from across India, 45 delegates from Nepal are also participating in the conference.
In his address, Rupani recalled his days as a student activist and said he is a member of the ABVP first and chief minister later, said the release.
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Special prayers offered in churches of Udupi diocese in support of Armed Forces
Udupi: As directed by the Indian Catholic Bishops’ Council, special prayers, inclusive of special offerings, were held for the safety of the Indian Armed Forces and soldiers during the Sunday Mass at the churches under the Udupi diocese.
Bishop Rev. Fr. Dr. Gerald Isaac Lobo, who is on his official annual visit, performed a special prayer service at St. Joseph's Church in Belman, Karkala taluk, and offered prayers for the soldiers serving the country. He also offered a special adoration in the name of the new Pope Leo XIV.
The Bishop, addressing the gathering at the prayer service, said that there was severe tension in the Indo-Pak border giving rise to fear of declaration of war. “As our soldiers guard the borders for the welfare of the entire nation and putting their lives at risk, we pray every day for their well-being. We should stand in support of our soldiers to boost their self-confidence,” he added.
“Pope Leo XIV has called for peace in the entire world and asked the citizens of all nations to cooperate for this by opting for discussion rather than war. We too should remember his message always and both nations should strive for strengthening of peace,” he added.
Church Pastor Fred Mascarenhas, Assistant Pastor Arnold Matthias and Karkala Christ King Church Pastor Clement Mascarenhas were present at the event.
