The Youth Affairs and Sports Ministry has drawn up a programme for the skill development and employment of youth which will start with the North-Eastern region soon. Speaking to reporters in New Delhi, Sports Minister Ajay Maken said age group of 15 to 35 constitute about 40 per cent of the country's total population and it was imperative to provide opportunities and skill development programmes for them. He said, the aim would be to make the youth a vibrant force against all existing streams of divisive, extremist and separatist forces. Mr Maken said, he will approach the Planning Commission and Finance Ministry for financial assistance.