By Felix Anthony –
Margherita, Assam (Miao): A large group youth from remote corners of Arunachal Pradesh came together to celebrate the diverse cultures and to pray for peace in India and in the world during the megha Youth Convention held at Divine Retreat Centre, Margherita, Assam on 10-12 May.
Around 650 youth from the eight districts of eastern part of Arunachal came together for a three-day Miao Diocesan Youth Convention concluded the event praying for peace in the world.
Inaugurating the three-day event, Bishop George of Miao Diocese reminded the youth about the rise of divisive forces in the country and around the world. “Our country in particular and the world in general is going through a tough time. Young people like you are the only hope we have to make this world a better place to live in”, he said. “The beautiful smile that I see today on your faces must remain there even when you have grown old. Work for peace, love and mutual respect and keep away from addiction to drugs, alcohol and mobile phones.”
Mr. Benjamin Dumgan Singpho, The Police Officer In-charge of Chowkham in Namsai District, who was attacked for taking on drug peddlers two years ago, was there to give his testimony to the youth. “It is never easy to stand for truth and what is right. You will be targeted. But you must always march towards positive energy and defeat the dark powers that come from all kinds of addictions.”
The colourful cultural dances that were displayed by the youth gathered from the eight districts at every evening were a visual treats to all the participants.
The Director of National Institute of Social Communications, Research and Training (NISCORT), New Delhi, Rev. Fr. Jose Murickan was one the many resource persons who talked to the eager youth. Speaking to them on the boons and bans of social media, he advised them to be cautious about being lost in the virtual world. “Social media is a great and the most effective modern means of communications to learn, to share and to engage but there have been many tragic examples of how youth have been trapped in this web”, he said to the youth.
The session by Miss Rebica Minj, Namsai District Football Coach, was very relevant one, considering most of the youth today have stopped playing outdoor games and are addicted to mobile games. “Outdoor games like football do not only keep one healthy but it is also a career option”, she said, appealing to the organizers to include sports competitions as part of the next youth conventions.
Mr. Mungtang Mossang, the Diocesan president of Arunachal Pradesh Catholic Association (APCA) Mrs. Likro Mossang, the APCA Women wing President, Fr. Johonson, the Director of Divine Retreat Centre, Margherita, Frs. Sebastian and Yesudas and several other addressed the youth to build a healthy and peaceful society.
Peace Rally and the three-day event concluded with the election of new youth representatives of Miao Diocese.