Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Thursday paid tributes to the father of the Nation Mahatma Gandhi on his death anniversary.
“The principles and values of truth and non-violence to which Gandhiji was always committed are beyond time and place. They are as relevant today as they were during his lifetime. He has guided us for peaceful resolution of differences and well-being of every Indian,” the Lieutenant Governor said.
Attending the Shanti Doot Sammelan, organised by Gandhi Global Family, the Lt Governor honoured the family members of the army brave-hearts, and also paid homage to all the leaders, fighters, and martyrs who devoted themselves towards India’s freedom.
“The world that we live in today, is witnessing conflicts. In many parts of the globe, societies are facing disruption because of ongoing aggression. In such a scenario, the need for peace and non-violence is deeply felt. I am confident in this situation Bapu's ideals will show the right path to humanity,” he said.
Sinha called upon every section of the society to rededicate themselves to the ideals and values of Mahatma Gandhi and come together for the cause of empowerment of poor, youth, women and farmers and make their valuable contribution to realise the vision of Viksit Bharat.
“Gandhi had once said that the mission of his life was to wipe tears from every eye. It should be our life motto. Welfare of the deprived section should be the government's topmost priority and society's collective strength must bring the poorest of poor to the mainstream of development,” the Lieutenant Governor said.
He commended the Gandhi Global Family J&K, for its constant endeavours to promote Gandhian values and spreading the noble message of Truth, Non-Violence and Social Harmony.
Responding to the demand put forth by the President of Gandhi Global Family J&K, Padma Shri Dr S.P. Varma, Sinha assured that the month-long Gandhi Jayanti celebrations will continue across J&K as per the past practice.
He said humanity can achieve the right path and goal of peace, harmony and development in Jammu Kashmir, the country and the world only by following the ideals of Bapu.
On the occasion, Lieutenant Governor was honoured with Shanti Doot Samman by the Gandhi Global Family.
Padma Shri Awardees including Dr. S.P. Varma, Prof. Vishwa Murti Shastri, Dr. Jitendra Udhampuri, and Sh Romalo Ram; meritorious students and Youth were also felicitated by the Lieutenant Governor with Gandhi Doot Samman.
A two-minute silence was observed as a mark of respect to the Father of the Nation and the martyrs who made supreme sacrifice in the struggle for India's freedom. A pledge was also administered to uphold and promote Gandhi ji's vision, ideals and philosophies.
Atal Dulloo, Chief Secretary; Anand Jain, ADGP Jammu; Ramesh Kumar, Divisional Commissioner, Jammu; retired and serving officials of Civil Administration, Police and Security Forces; members of Gandhi Global Family; family members of martyrs and freedom fighters, representatives of various social organizations and students in large numbers were present.
Yudhvir Sethi, Member of Legislative Assembly, Jammu East; Arjun Singh Raju, Member of Legislative Assembly, Ramban and prominent citizens were also present on the occasion.