The youth participants of the 21st Know India programme today called on the President Pranab Mukherjee at Rashtrapati Bhavan in New Delhi. Addressing the overseas youth of Indian origin, the President asked them to always bear in mind the country’s unity amidst extraordinary diversity and that the goal of inclusive economic growth can be achieved through spreading of knowledge. Mr Mukherjee emphasized the importance of values for the youth and encouraged them to learn more about the country through the orientation progamme. An official release said, the three-week Know India programme by the Ministry of Overseas Indian Affairs intends to introduce India to the diaspora youth. The programme includes visits to historical, cultural and administrative institutions in India, interaction with the media, NGOs and women organizations.

India and Australia have agreed to further strengthen their existing bilateral ties in the field of skill development and education. This was decided in a meeting between the minister of Overseas Indian Affairs Vayalar Ravi and Australian minister for Immigration and Citizenship Chris Bowen in New Delhi today. Talking to reporters after the meeting, the minister said that talks with Mr. Bowen were fruitful and both sides decided to increase coordination in the field of skill development and education. Mr. Ravi said that Mr. Bowen has assured him of complete security to Indian students studying in Australia.

Replying to a query on the steps taken by the Australian government for the security of Indian students, Mr Bowen said that his government is making all efforts to ensure their security. He also welcomed more Indian students to study in Australia.