New Delhi. The Vice President of India Shri M. Hamid Ansari presented the International Awards for Young People (IAYP) – India Gold Awards to the young awardees at a function here today. He presented 44 Gold Awards in 4 categories i.e Service, Adventurous Journey, Skills and Physical Recreation. The young awardees include 8 from East Zone, 11 from West Zone, 13 from North Zone and 12 from South Zone.

Addressing the young awardees the Vice President said that ours is a huge country and every young person should prove that he is a better citizen of our country. Amongst us the utility bond is that of common citizenship. We must enjoy our rights and do our duties of citizenship to the fullest. Describing the young awardees as the role models in their grouping, he wished them all the success in their endeavors.

The International Awards for Young People (IAYP) is an exciting self-development programme for all young people aged between 14 and 25 years worldwide. It equips them with like skills, builds their confidence and engages them with their communities. There are three Award Levels, Bronze, Silver and Gold, each requiring increasing commitment and effort. Bronze usually takes 6-12 months to complete, Silver 12-18 months and Gold 18-24 months. The Award Programme comprises four Sections: Service develops a sense of community and social responsibility; the Adventurous Journey cultivates a spirit of adventure and an understanding of the environment; the Skills Section develops cultural, vocational and practical skills; and Physical Recreation encourages improved performance and fitness.