(Above): Technology spoiling Indian childhood – kids are busy using smartphone while sitting on a couch, indoors. (Shutterstock)

 

Indian Vice President M. Venkaiah Naidu, Oct. 8, called for creating awareness among youngsters on the need to refrain from getting addicted to digital devices like mobile phones.

Interacting with achievers from different fields — writers, educators, social workers, an entrepreneur and a mountaineer in Itanagar, Arunachal Pradesh, he said children and young adults need to be cautioned against constant use of digital devices and over-dependence on the internet. “It will kill creativity and original thinking,” he added.

Indian Vice President M. Venkaiah Naidu interacting with the achievers in various fields, in Itanagar, Arunachal Pradesh, Oct. 8, 2021. (PIB)
Indian Vice President M. Venkaiah Naidu interacting with the achievers in various fields, in Itanagar, Arunachal Pradesh, Oct. 8, 2021. (PIB)

Naidu urged celebrities in different fields to take the lead in educating youngsters about various social evils like gender discrimination and drug addiction. They should also be made aware of the adverse effects of climate change and the need to protect nature and water bodies.

He also wanted Indian sports like Kabaddi to be encouraged. Stressing the need for youth to be physical fit, he said COVID-19 has taught the importance of physical fitness. “One can be mentally alert if one is physically fit,” he said.

Naidu also stressed the importance of inculcating an attitude of “sharing and caring” among youngsters. He said “Share and care is the core of Indian philosophy.”

Brig (Dr) B.D. Mishra (Retd.), Governor of Arunachal Pradesh; Pema Khandu, Chief Minister of Arunachal Pradesh; and others were present at the event.