25th Jharkhand Foundation Day celebrated
Punjab Raj Bhavan resonated with cultural pride and patriotic fervour as Punjab Governor and UT Administrator Gulab Chand Kataria led the celebrations for the 25th Jharkhand Foundation Day. The programme commenced with the traditional lighting of the lamp ceremony followed by a solemn tribute to Bhagwan Birsa Munda, the iconic leader of the tribal movement, on his birth anniversary.
A video message from Santosh Kumar Gangwar, Governor of Jharkhand, was shared with the audience. A captivating video showcasing Jharkhand’s rich history, culture and traditions was played, leaving the attendees enthralled.
Samand from Jharkhand shared insightful information about the state, elaborating on its historical journey, cultural richness and economic progress.
A cultural programme showcasing the vibrant folk music, dance, and traditions of Jharkhand added colour and energy to the celebration, reflecting the state’s diversity and artistic heritage.
Addressing the gathering, Governor Kataria extended heartfelt congratulations and best wishes to the people of Jharkhand on the 25th Foundation Day of their state. He also highlighted the auspicious coincidence of the 555th birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev, emphasising on the teachings of truth, service and dedication.
He praised the tradition of langar, emphasising on its essence of selfless service and unity, drawing parallels between the values of Sikhism and tribal traditions of collectivism and harmony with nature.
The Governor lauded the initiative of celebrating the foundation days of various states and union territories at Punjab Raj Bhavan under the ‘Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat’ program, envisioned by Prime Minister Sh. Narendra Modi. “This program fosters mutual understanding and respect for the cultural diversity of our nation while promoting unity in diversity,” he remarked.
Paying homage to former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee, Governor Kataria acknowledged his pivotal role in the formation of Jharkhand.
“It was his vision and determination that brought Jharkhand into existence, providing a platform for the tribal community to safeguard their rich cultural heritage and rights,” the Administrator said.
The Governor paid tributes to the heroes of Jharkhand, including Bhagwan Birsa Munda, Tilka Manjhi, Sidhu-Kanhu, Chand-Bhairav, and Albert Ekka, acknowledging their sacrifices for equality and justice.
Governor Gulab Chand Kataria commended Prime Minister Narendra Modi for launching projects worth Rs 6,640 crore aimed at tribal welfare, including the establishment of 10 Eklavya Model Residential Schools for quality education. He also noted the release of special Rs 150 coins and postage stamps in honor of Bhagwan Birsa Munda on Tribal Pride Day and highlighted the “Dharti Aaba Janjati Gram Utkarsh Abhiyan,” which will invest Rs 80,000 crore to develop over 60,000 tribal villages.
