International Youth Day 2025 Celebrated in Satakutuni Gram Panchayat, Ganjam
Berhampur : In celebration of International Youth Day 2025, Youth for Social Development (YSD) proudly organised a vibrant programme in Satakutuni Gram Panchayat, Rangeilunda Block, Ganjam with the theme “My Village, My Responsibility – Youth for Active Citizenship”. This local theme is aligned with the United Nations’ International Youth Day 2025 theme – “Local Youth Actions for the SDGs and Beyond”, reflecting the shared commitment to empower young people as active agents of change in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals and shaping a better future.
The event witnessed enthusiastic participation from youth groups, PRI members, school students, teachers, AWWs and community members. Distinguished guests present included Mr. Tapas Ranjan Ray (Agriculture Manager), Ranju Patro (Nutrition Block Officer), R. Jyoti Laxmi Reddy (Rista Block Officer), Ms. Sasmita Pradhan (Rista-FTC), Mr. Santosh Dalai (Agriculture VRP), Mr. G. Debraj (Headmaster, Josada High School), and Ms. Kuni Sahu (Sarpanch, Satakutuni GP).
The programme commenced with the lighting of the lamp by the guests, symbolising the start of the celebration, followed by a welcome song performed by the youth group. The Welcome Address was delivered by the YSD Project Coordinator, highlighting the importance of youth leadership in addressing community issues. This was followed by an Address by the YSD Programme Coordinator, Mr. Chandan Kumar Sahu, who spoke about the role of young people in achieving the SDGs at the grassroots level, emphasising their responsibility in environmental protection, education, gender equality, and social development.
The Plantation Drive – “One Youth, One Plant” saw guests and participants planting saplings in the GP and school premises to promote environmental awareness. A Youth Speak Circle featured inspiring one-minute messages from young participants on issues such as education, health, gender equality, and prevention of child marriage. Guests of Honour addressed the gathering with motivational speeches on youth leadership, environmental responsibility, and active citizenship. Local leaders, including the Sarpanch and Samiti Members, shared messages on the importance of youth participation in Gram Panchayat planning and decision-making.
The Idea Wall Activity – “What I Want to Change” encouraged young participants to express their vision for the village, with suggestions to be compiled and submitted to the Gram Panchayat for action.The event concluded with closing remarks by the Project Coordinator and guests, a vote of thanks by YSD, and a group photograph capturing the spirit of unity and change.
The celebration was coordinated and facilitated by the YSD team: Programme Coordinator – Mr. Chandan Kumar Sahu, Project Coordinator – Mr. Sudeep Kumar Chakrabarty, MIS Coordinator – Mr. Devid P. Pradhan, Block Coordinators – Mrs. Mamali Panda, Mr. Sasikanta Pradhan, and Mr. Alok Sahu, Ms Priyanka Pattanayak and Ms Rikita Samantara from Silk City Radio.
