"It is time for the nation to reset its moral compass," Mukherjee said during an interaction with artistes, who had participated in the Republic Day Parade, at the lawns of the Mughal Gardens of Rashtrapati Bhavan.
Describing the youth as vanguard of change, the President said, "The future belongs to them....The anxiety and restlessness of youth has to be channelised towards change with speed, dignity and order."
The event saw over 400 participants comprising NCC cadets, NSS volunteers and other artistes.
Director General NCC Lt Gen P S Bhalla said, "The 30-day NCC camp ends tomorrow with the PM's Rally but what these youth learn here is commitment, patriotic values, honesty, character and integrity besides core human values which are so essential today."
Sreeshma, a beaming NCC cadet, said, "This experience has made us feel that we are an important part of India. And, now we have greater responsibilities on our shoulders."
National Service Scheme (NSS) volunteer Sunita Meena from Rajasthan said, "I feel so proud. It was an unforgettable experience....Can't express in words."
More From This Section
The event also saw participation of cadets from seven neighbouring countries including Bangladesh, Bhutan, Sri Lanka, Nepal and Singapore.
"Very good performance. I really enjoyed it," Mukherjee told them and posed for group photographs.