"Secularism Is In The Blood Of Every Indian," Says: VP Naidu On Right To Practice One's Faith

VP Naidu urges the youth to protect Indian values

Kottayam: Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu expressed his strong disapproval of attempts to ridicule other religions and create dissensions in society.  He highlighted that every person has the right to practice and preach his or her faith in the country.

While addressing an event organized to mark the 150th death anniversary of Saint Kuriakose Elias Chavara, a spiritual leader and social reformer from the Kerala Catholic community, the Vice President said, "Practice your religion but don't abuse and indulge in hate speech and writings."

Taking notes from the increase in hatred within the society regarding caste, religion, community, traditions, constitutional rights and ethos, VP Mr. Naidu said that "Secularism is in the blood of every Indian. The country is respected world-over for its culture and heritage."

In this context, the Vice President called for strengthening the Indian value system, an official statement said.

Mr. Naidu said community service must be made compulsory for students studying in government as well as private schools as it would help them to develop an attitude of sharing and caring in their interaction with others.

"Today, there is a dire need to inculcate the spirit of service from a young age in the youth of this country. Once this pandemic is behind us and normalcy returns, I would suggest that government schools, as well as those in the private sector, must make community service of at least two to three weeks compulsory for students," added the Vice President.

While highlighting the ethics and importance of unity, he said that urging youngsters to imbibe, protect and promote Indian cultural values.

The Vice President said inculcating the spirit of service in youngsters at the school level would help them to develop an attitude of sharing and caring in their interaction with others.

"The philosophy of share-and-care is at the core of India's age-old culture and must be widely propagated. For us, the whole world is one family as encapsulated in our timeless ideal, 'Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam'. It is with this spirit that we should move forward together," Mr. Naidu said.

Mr. Naidu also advised youngsters to remain physically fit by doing yoga or any other form of physical exercise and "to love and live with nature." He asked them to protect nature and preserve culture for a better future.