DW BUREAU / Shimla Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar while inaugurating the Azadi Ka Amrut Mahotsav-National Youth Festival organized by Zenith at Baldeyan near Shimla, today, said that youth were the real ambassadors of our culture. They should also make their significant contribution in making the country self-reliant, he added. The Governor said that unity in diversity was our identity and the sentiments and thoughts of the people were the same, which was reflected in cultural and youth festivals. Such programs add to this rich culture. Stressing on social harmony, he said that various social workers like B.R. Idate has taught the lesson of harmony to society. Such persons were the role models for the youth; he added and said that they should take inspiration from them. Shri Arlekar said that we were celebrating the Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav. Now, we have to move towards Amrit Kaal and every person's contribution should be ensured in this period, he added. "There is a need to reflect on what we can do in the next 25 years", said the Governor. He called upon the youth to take a pledge to adopt Swadeshi so that we could be self-reliant. B. R. Idate, Ex Chairman, DWBDNC, Ministry of Social Justice and Member, NITI Aayog Sub-committee, Government of India said that the role of youth has been important in taking India's rich culture to the world. Many great personalities like Swami Vivekananda did this work in their young age. He said that only youth could take the country forward on the path of progress. He called for removing the evils like untouchability from society. Dr. Manish Gawai, National Youth Awardee and Organizer Azadi Ka Amrut Mahotsav-National Youth Festival welcomed the Governor on the occasion and detailed about the activities being organized under Azadi Ka Amrut Mahotsav. Shri Idate honoured the Governor with 'Excellence Award' on the occasion. The Governor awarded 'Life Time Achievement Award' to B. R. Idate on the occasion. Various cultural events were performed by the artists on the occasion. Mithil Kalambe, President, Team Zenith and co-ordinator Azadi Ka Amrut Mahotsav National Youth Festival, Selected participants from across the country and other prominent people were also present on the occasion. (editor@dailyworld.in)