'Students play a vital role in nation building'

A country cannot become strong with only MLAs, ministers and officials. The students and children play a vital role in nation-building, said Minister for Food and Civil Supplies U T Khader.

He was speaking at a ministers' and MLAs' interaction with children organised as a part of 'Makkala Maasotsava' organised by the department of public instruction, Shikshana Sampanmoola Kendra and Childline at School of Social Work Roshni Nilaya on Saturday.

"There is a lot to learn from children. There is a need to discuss the responsibilities of children along with their rights," said Khader.

Dakshina Kannada Zilla Panchayat vice president Kasturi Panja said that there is a need for value-based education. She also emphasised on the conservation of Kannada medium government schools and the need to give priority to Kannada.

Mannagudde schoolchildren presented a short play "Amayakana Halliya Amayakaru" on the occasion.

Child Welfare Committee president Renny D'Souza and others were present.