Congress General Secretary Rahul Gandhi [Images] on Monday asked partymen to be prepared for a long struggle in Uttar Pradesh in which youth would have to play a major role.

"Congressmen must remain prepared for a long struggle to strengthen the party in Uttar Pradesh in which youth would have to play a major role," he said at a function held to mark the conclusion of the training camp of presidents of nyay panchayat in Amethi.

Rahul, who was accompanied by his sister Priyanka Gandhi [Images] Vadra, said UP has lagged behind during the past two decades when it has had non-Congress governments at the helm.

"Development works have come to a halt during the past two decades when non-Congress parties merely encouraged communalism and casteism," Gandhi said.

The Congress MP, who later left for Delhi, said besides giving important responsibilities to the youth, the party would extend full respect to seniors who would be guiding them.

Recalling the glorious history of the party, he asked the young participants at the camp to follow the path shown by Jawaharlal Nehru, Indira Gandhi [Images] and Rajiv Gandhi and work towards bringing an end to communalism and casteism and help establish equality in society.

"Congress had in the past helped the country get a new identity at the global level," he said.

Priyanka, who was sitting next to him, said she was satisfied and happy with the achievements and efforts of Rahul Gandhi.

"He is actively working for Congress and the people of Amethi," she said.