Principal Secretary (Planning) and Development Commissioner, R. Ramakrishnan emphasized that the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) represent a shared vision of prosperity, equity, and sustainability for all, and young people play a crucial role in this transformative agenda.
Addressing the “Youth for SDGs: Promoting Youth Involvement through Cultural Exchange” event held at the Hotel 2K conference hall, Kohima on Saturday, organized by the ARK Foundation as special guest, Ramakrishnan highlighted the significance of the event in promoting cultural awareness and shaping future leaders who are empathetic, tolerant, and dedicated to building inclusive communities.
He emphasized that despite the diversity, there is a shared aspiration for a brighter and more inclusive future. Ramakrishnan noted that such initiatives can bridge differences and work towards common goals like the Agenda 2030 for Sustainable Development.
Citing the ‘Youth in India 2022’ report by the Ministry of Statistics & Programme Implementation (MoSPI), he mentioned that India’s youthful population has the potential to create a significant ‘demographic dividend.’
Citing the National Youth Policy 2014 report based on Census 2011, he noted that in Nagaland 30.9% of the population were youth, aged 15 to 29 years. Ramakrishnan stressed that this demographic is a force for change, innovation, and hope.
He acknowledged the significant contributions of young people to their communities, proposing innovative solutions and driving positive actions.
As future leaders, he said that the youth will not only experience the outcomes of SDGs but also drive their successful implementation. Therefore, he called upon all to raise awareness about the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development among the youth and also sought their active engagement.
The state government was committed to creating adequate opportunities and fostering youth resources for overall development, he added. Ramakrishnan also mentioned that Nagaland, like the rest of the country and the world, recognizes the need to align development efforts with the SDG 2030 Agenda to ensure no one is left behind.
The SDGCC under the Planning & Transformation Department, with support from the UNDP, has been pivotal in localizing the SDGs in Nagaland since October 2019. For technical assistance with SDG implementation in Nagaland, the SDGCC can be contacted at sdgnagaland@gmail.com or through their social media handles.
Special invitee Dr. P. Ngully from the Kohima Educational Trust highlighted “Understanding the SDG Goal 16 in Nagaland Context.” ARK Foundation president Ketho Angami discussed “Youth for SDG Sustainable Development Goals,” and Theyiesinuo Keditsu, lyricists and educator elaborated on “The Role of Youth in Achieving the SDG Goals in a Cultural Setting.” The program included an extempore speech competition, folk song presentations, and discussions.