President Pranab Mukherjee has said that the idea of secularism needs to be further strengthened in the minds of young people to build a harmonious society. Addressing institutes of higher learning and civil service academies through video conferencing in New Delhi today, Mr Mukherjee stressed on the need for providing value-based education to the youth. <br/><br/>He said, there is a need to inculcate the spirit of democratic behaviour in the youth which calls for an appreciation of the rich diversity and accommodation for divergent or contrarian views. The President said, the occurrence of some unfortunate incidents of atrocity and violence against women in recent years should strengthen the resolve to wipe out any trace of depravity from the minds of individuals. <br/><br/>He said, a spirit of reverence towards women must be instilled in the children in the homes and educational institutions. The President said, the recent programmes launched by the government are for creating financial inclusion, creating model villages and formation of a digitally-empowered society.