Minister for Planning and Development, Ahsan Iqbal has stressed the need to discourage the tendencies of hate and prejudice for making the society healthy.

Addressing a ceremony in Rawalpindi today, he said hate and prejudice are the two viruses that are weakening the fabric of our society.

The Minister said all the minorities including the Christian community have been playing commendable role with complete religious liberty in development and prosperity of Pakistan.

Ahsan Iqbal said all the minorities are also enjoying their rights as enshrined in the Constitution of Pakistan and playing their due role in defence of the motherland.

Referring to government's steps to empower youth, the Minister said the government is taking number of steps to make youth of the country skillful and self-reliant.