Shimla: Governor Kavinder Gupta has called upon the youth to take the lead in promoting health awareness, combating stigma and discrimination and strengthening the spirit of humanitarian service in society. He was addressing the closing ceremony of ‘Swasthya Manthan-2026’, a National youth festival and conclave on the theme “Harnessing Youth Leadership for a healthier Tomorrow” organized by Himachal Pradesh National Law University (HPNLU), Shimla in collaboration with State & District Red Cross Society, HP and NCC Unit of HPNLU at HPNLU on Sunday.

While congratulating the winners of various competitions and all participants, the Governor said the theme of the event, “Empowering Youth Leadership for a Healthy Tomorrow,” was highly relevant in the present times. He said young people were not only the future of the country but also its greatest strength today, and their awareness, sensitivity and active participation were essential for building a healthy society.

Highlighting the role of youth, he urged them to spread authentic health information, challenge myths and misconceptions and encourage people to seek appropriate healthcare and counselling whenever required. He said law was not merely a collection of rules and provisions but an instrument to protect the dignity, equality and rights of individuals. The convergence of public health, law and psychology was therefore important for building a healthy body, a healthy mind and a sensitive society.