Sri Vijaya Puram, Aug 20: Young people in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands were urged to remain vigilant against cybercrime, online fraud, misinformation and deepfakes while contributing to responsible citizenship and nation building at a one-day awareness programme organised by the Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose Police Training Institute (NSCBPTI) on August 19.
The programme, titled “Youth Connect – Empowering Youth for Responsible Citizenship and Nation Building”, formed part of the commemorative observance of the 150th Birth Anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel. It sought to strengthen engagement between the Police and youth and channel the energy, creativity and potential of young citizens towards constructive nation building.
A key focus of the programme was the growing range of digital challenges confronting users. Participants were sensitised to cybercrime, online fraud, misinformation, fake news and deepfakes, with an emphasis on exercising caution before consuming, trusting or sharing information online.
The youth were encouraged to follow the principle, “Think before you click, verify before you trust, and think before you share.”
The programme also addressed issues relating to drugs and anti-social activities. Participants were encouraged to stay away from such activities and instead pursue sports, skill development and healthy lifestyles.
The initiative placed particular emphasis on strengthening the relationship between the Police and young people through community policing. The engagement was aimed at creating a platform where youth could better understand the role of discipline, integrity, constitutional values and public service.
Speaking at the programme, Uma Shankar, Principal of NSCBPTI, said a modern police training institute should extend beyond professional training and function as a platform for developing these values and promoting public service.
The programme was organised as part of the celebrations marking the 150th Birth Anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, with the Police–Youth engagement positioned as an avenue for encouraging young citizens to contribute positively to society.
The focus on digital safety formed a significant component of the interaction, particularly as young people were encouraged to assess information before accepting or circulating it. The discussions also linked responsible digital behaviour with broader responsibilities as citizens.
The programme brought together the themes of responsible citizenship, digital awareness, personal wellbeing and community engagement. Through the initiative, NSCBPTI sought to strengthen Police–Youth partnership while encouraging young citizens to use their potential in constructive activities and nation building.
