SRINAGAR, Oct 2: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha addressed a significant function today at Raj Bhawan, commemorating the 155th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi, the Father of the Nation. The event, jointly organized by the Department of School Education and the Department of Higher Education, also marked the closing ceremony of the Swachhata Pakhwada and the Swachhata Hi Seva Abhiyan, emphasizing the importance of cleanliness and civic responsibility.
In his address, the Lt Governor extended warm greetings to the people on this auspicious occasion, which also coincided with the birth anniversary of former Prime Minister Lal Bahadur Shastri. He paid heartfelt tributes to Mahatma Gandhi, highlighting how the leadership, ideals, and values championed by Bapu have inspired the entire nation to unite for the cause of independence and to contribute meaningfully to global peace and progress.
The Lt Governor emphasized that Gandhiji’s principles of truth, non-violence, compassion, and kindness provide essential solutions to the challenges facing a tumultuous world today. He urged the people to spread Bapu’s vision far and wide, aiming to create a more peaceful and harmonious planet. “Bapu dreamed of India being a beacon of hope for humanity, a peaceful, self-reliant, and developed nation. The responsibility for fulfilling these aspirations rests with all 1.4 billion Indians, especially the younger generation, who must take on a more significant role in this transformative journey,” stated the Lt Governor.
Highlighting the remarkable progress made in Jammu and Kashmir over the past five years, the Lt Governor pointed out that under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the empowerment of grassroots democracy and the facilitation of violence-free elections serve as a testament to the region’s commitment to shedding its past and embracing a new future. He remarked, “The life and work of Gandhiji are shaping a new Jammu and Kashmir today. The world has recently witnessed historic, free, peaceful, and fair assembly elections. Approximately 14 million citizens have reaffirmed their faith in the values of the Constitution, pledging to contribute to the development of this beautiful Union Territory and our nation.”
The Lt Governor further emphasized that today’s youth in J&K are increasingly recognizing the significance of peace and democratic values. “They no longer wield tools of destruction but instead hold instruments of creation. Our young generation is determined to embrace the principles of truth and non-violence, aspiring to build a prosperous and equitable society,” he stated.
He also commended the efforts of the School Education Department and students from various schools across Jammu and Kashmir for their cleanliness initiatives, which include adopting local water bodies, parks, or heritage sites to conduct cleanliness drives twice a month in honor of Mahatma Gandhi. The Lt Governor encouraged the youth and citizens alike to identify one location in their cities and villages, dedicating a day each month for activities such as cleanliness drives and community service.
Moreover, the Lt Governor called on all segments of society to draw inspiration from Bapu’s life and work towards enhancing public welfare. During the event, he honored students who excelled in various competitions as part of the Gandhi Jayanti celebrations. The program also featured captivating performances by artists and students, portraying the life and legacy of Mahatma Gandhi.
The event was attended by Alok Kumar, Principal Secretary of the Departments of School Education and Higher Education, senior officials, heads of educational institutions, students, teachers, youth, and prominent citizens from across the Union Territory, both in person and through virtual participation. This celebration served not only as a tribute to Mahatma Gandhi but also as a reminder of the enduring relevance of his ideals in shaping a better future for Jammu and Kashmir and the nation at large.