Making Jammu and Kashmir into the utopia that Mahatma Gandhi envisioned was in progress, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha informed reporters in Srinagar on Monday.
At a statewide event commemorating Gandhi’s 154th birthday, hosted by the State Department of Education, the LG reportedly declared, “Efforts are being made to create J&K of Mahatma Gandhi’s dreams.”
He said that the widespread outcry against violence in J&K and the massive turnout for the “Shanti Yatra” proved that Gandhi’s message of nonviolence and universal progress had become a “Jan-Andolan.”
Sinha reflected on Gandhi’s unchanging principles, which have served as an inspiration for generations throughout the globe, while the strength of truth, ahimsa, satyagraha, and humble living have driven mankind towards a more peaceful and harmonious future.
In a speech, he reflected on Bapu’s legacy, saying, “Bapu’s life teaches us that a spirit of dedication and purity of means can not only ensure independence but can also make society prosperous.”
After a month-long series of events commemorating Gandhi Jayanti in classrooms throughout Jammu and Kashmir, the ‘Shanti Yatra’ finally came to a close in Srinagar.
The LG wished the people a happy Gandhi Jayanti and a happy birthday to former Prime Minister Lal Bahadur Shastri.
Bapu’s ideas are potent tools for advancing human well-being, preserving individual worth, and giving individuals agency. He said that the world’s problems could only be overcome with the help of his ageless ideas.
Sinha praised the Shanti Yatra, in which more than 27,000 students travelled in tribute to Gandhi and his values.
He called on everyone, but particularly young people, to learn from the Father of the Nation’s example and work together towards a more just and peaceful society.
Every one of Bapu’s wise sayings has a solid foundation. His outlook on life will teach you something you won’t find anywhere else. The LG warned that without Bapu’s values, the country would flounder and that only his “precious treasure” could equip the country’s leaders to safeguard the public’s best interests. To ensure that Jammu and Kashmir has a bright future, “all the citizens must continue to be guided by the truth, nonviolence, selfless service, sacrifice, love, and tolerance that Pujya Bapu fought for throughout his life.”
He also praised the performers for their compelling portrayal of Mahatma Gandhi’s life.
Sinha presented awards to prominent Gandhians from around India in recognition of their outstanding efforts to spread Mahatma Gandhi’s ideas.
As part of the Gandhi Jayanti festivities, he also spoke with those taking part in the “Shanti Yatra” and awarded prizes to the winners of several student contests.
Padma Shri S. P. Varma, Ramesh Bhaiya, Laxmi Das, Ranjana Mukhopadhyay, and Ashok Kapoor, among others, shed light on Mahatma Gandhi’s lifetime struggles.
Principal Secretary to LG Mandeep Kumar Bhandari, Principal Secretary to LG Arun Kumar Mehta, Principal Secretary to LG Alok Kumar, and Advisor to LG Rajeev Rai Bhatnagar all attended.
