 early times report
Leh, Nov 1: The Foundation Day of several states and union territories was celebrated with enthusiasm at the Lieutenant Governor’s Secretariat. States and UTs commemorated during the event included Andhra Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Haryana, Karnataka, Kerala, Madhya Pradesh, Punjab, Tamil Nadu, Andaman & Nicobar Islands, Chandigarh, Delhi, Lakshadweep, and Puducherry. Foundation Day of various states & UTs are celebrated at Raj Niwas and Raj Bhawans across India as part of the Government of India’s Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat initiative, which aims to honour the formation of states and UTs, promote cultural diversity, and foster unity among regions. The event was designed to deepen understanding and appreciation of India’s rich tapestry of cultures and traditions, and to reinforce the spirit of togetherness among the country’s diverse regions. Addressing the gathering, Administrative Secretary Bhanu Prabha, a native of Punjab, emphasised that national prosperity is only possible when the states and union territories thrive together. She highlighted the responsibility of citizens in helping India progress and noted Punjab’s legacy of fertile land and its contributions to the nation’s freedom struggle, with many eminent leaders and freedom fighters emerging from the region. Administrative Secretary Bhupesh Chaudhary, representing Haryana, spoke about India’s strength in its diversity—encompassing a wide range of cultures, communities, and religions. He reiterated the importance of citizens’ contributions to nation-building, essential for achieving the goal of a developed India (Viksit Bharat). He remarked that although Haryana accounts for roughly 1.5% of India’s total land area, it contributes around 3.5% to the national GDP. The event included video messages from the Governor of Kerala, Shri Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar, and the Governor of Madhya Pradesh, Shri Mangubhai C. Patel. A visual presentation showcasing Kerala’s major attractions was also screened for the audience. Earlier, Under Secretary Sachin Bali welcomed attendees and explained the purpose of organising the Foundation Day celebrations of different states and UTs. Administrative Secretary Shashanka Ala, members of the armed forces from various states and UTs serving in Ladakh, officials and staff of the Lieutenant Governor’s Secretariat, and Raj Niwas were present at the event.
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