Rehan Qayoom Mir
Srinagar, Oct 2: Asserting that Mahatma Gandhi saw ray of hope in J&K during difficult times, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Thursday said that Bapu’s vision of peace and prosperity should serve as a guiding light for the youth and the people of the Union Territory.
Speaking at the UT-level function here organized by the Department of School Education and Department of Culture, the Lt Governor said, “Gandhi Ji’s principles remain a source of inspiration for humanity and must be inculcated in the younger generation.”
Paying rich tributes to Mahatma Gandhi on his 156th birth anniversary he called on people to embrace the timeless ideals of truth, non-violence, tolerance, and compassion to address contemporary global challenges.
“Gandhiji wanted to see peace and prosperity in J&K,” Sinha said, adding, “He (Gandhiji) had said that he sees a ray of hope in this land. I pray that J&K emerges as a shining star to show the light to the entire country in these difficult times (1947 partition era).”
He urged the youth of J&K to make Gandhian ideals the basis of their lives and contribute actively to the welfare of society. “Our young generation must realize that Bapu’s J&K is one of peace and prosperity, and they have a responsibility to shape it with their energy and dedication,” he said.
Highlighting the government’s commitment to Gandhiji’s philosophy, LG Sinha said that under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the regime is working tirelessly to fulfill the Mahatma’s dream of a “Viksit Bharat.”
He stressed the importance of embracing the concept of swadeshi to promote self-reliance and economic growth in the Union Territory. “The J&K government has been promoting Bapu’s vision of swadeshi by setting up domestic industries. On this occasion of Gandhi Jayanti, I appeal to everyone—let us adopt swadeshi in our lives,” the Lieutenant Governor added.
He urged people to promote and purchase products made by Self Help Groups and Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs). “Remember your roots and the ageless spirit of India as you chart the future course. Society and nature must exist in harmony. We must focus on Research & Development while ensuring that agriculture, industry, and service sectors work in unison for a prosperous economy,” he said.
Sinha said, “We live in a time when global challenges threaten to undermine peace and stability. We must follow the ideals of Bapu to address contemporary challenges.”
Highlighting Gandhiji’s vision of Sewa (selfless service) and Kartavya (duties), the Lt Governor said these values will continue to guide India’s journey towards becoming a Viksit Bharat. “With economic prosperity, we are determined to build a society powered by moral force and based on equity and justice,” he added.
Sinha also paid homage to former Prime Minister Lal Bahadur Shastri on his birth anniversary, recalling his simplicity and dedication to the nation.
The occasion also marked the closing ceremony of Sewa Parv. The Lt Governor congratulated districts and schools for their outstanding performance during the fortnight-long celebrations. He felicitated members of the Gandhi Global Family, Sant Nirankari Mission, and Har Ghar Tiranga Campaign volunteers for their contribution.
Chief Secretary, Atal Dulloo; President Gandhi Global Family, J&K, Padma Dr SP Varma; Additional Chief Secretary, Higher Education Department, Shantmanu; Principal Secretary Culture, Brij Mohan Sharma; Secretary, School Education, Ram Niwas Sharma; senior officials, heads of educational institutions, teachers, and students in large number attended the Gandhi Jayanti celebrations.
