JAMMU, May 01(NVI): The Foundation Day of Gujarat and Maharashtra was celebrated with enthusiasm at J&K Lok Bhavan, with Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha presiding over the event.
Addressing the gathering, the Lieutenant Governor described Gujarat and Maharashtra as the “growth engines” of the nation, highlighting their significant contribution to India’s GDP and exports, along with their rich social, cultural, and spiritual heritage.
He said Gujarat is known for its entrepreneurial spirit, simplicity, and warmth, while Maharashtra commands global respect for its enterprise, valor, and spiritual legacy. “Both states are powerful drivers of India’s development trajectory,” he remarked.
The Lieutenant Governor paid tribute to great leaders from Gujarat, including Mahatma Gandhi, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, and Prime Minister Narendra Modi, noting their transformative role in shaping the nation. He said Mahatma Gandhi’s ideals of truth, non-violence, and selfless service turned India’s freedom struggle into a mass movement and continue to inspire generations.
Highlighting Sardar Patel’s contribution, the Lieutenant Governor said India’s strength as the world’s largest democracy is rooted in his vision of unity in diversity. “His commitment to ‘Ek Bharat, Shreshth Bharat’ remains a guiding force for the nation,” he added.
Referring to Maharashtra, the Lieutenant Governor described it as a land of industry, spirituality, and sacrifice. He paid homage to icons such as Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, Bajirao I, Bal Gangadhar Tilak, and Vinayak Damodar Savarkar for their contributions to national unity. He also recalled the legacy of Ahilyabai Holkar, whose devotion enriched India’s spiritual traditions.
The Lieutenant Governor further stated that under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, India has witnessed a renewed sense of confidence, dignity, and progress over the past 12 years. He said the Prime Minister’s leadership has inspired citizens to translate resolve into action, marking a historic phase in the country’s development.
He added that India’s global standing has strengthened, with the Indian diaspora expressing pride in the nation’s achievements. Referring to the Abrogation of Article 370, the Lieutenant Governor said the move fulfilled Sardar Patel’s vision and reinforced the foundation of a united and strong India.
The event witnessed participation from officials, dignitaries, and citizens, celebrating the enduring legacy and contributions of both states to the nation’s progress.(NVI)
