Thiruvananthapuram: Union Minister for Youth Affairs Vikram Verma on January 16 said a new National Youth Policy is likely to be announced during the Budget session of Parliament.

"The draft for the new youth policy is ready and is in advanced stage of discussion and consultations within the ministry, youth organisations and youth wings of various political parties," he told reporters.

As the highlight of the new policy, the minister said a new scheme aimed for the development of adolescents (in the age group of 12-18) would be included for which Rs 112 crore will be earmarked in the 10th five-year Plan.

Verma said youth empowerment, gender justice, training and employment, health, environment, sports and recreation, art and culture and science and technology would be the thrust areas to be addressed.

The Youth Commission formed to suggest schemes for the development of youth was expected to submit its report to the government by the end of the year.

He said there will be no change in the definition of youth and it will continue to be 15 to 35 years as adopted in the policy announced in 1998.

PTI