

my uttarakhand news Bureau
Dehradun, 29 Nov: Governor Lt General Gurmit Singh (Retd) inaugurated the Silver Jubilee celebrations of Riverdale International School in Bajpur and said that being a witness to its glorious 25-year journey is a moment of immense honour and pride for him. He said that this journey of the institution is a shining chapter filled with dedication, excellence, discipline, and vision. “The celebration provides an opportunity to evaluate where we stand today, take pride in how far we have come, and make new resolutions for the future,” he pointed out.
Speaking about the cultural performances, the Governor said that the innocent presentations by nursery children, the rattle drill by LKG kids, the pom show by UKG students, the butterfly dance, hockey drill, flower drill, and gymnastics—all reflected the true spirit and culture of the school. He stated that these young children are the future of tomorrow’s India, and therefore it is essential to provide them with the right guidance.

The Governor added that District Udham Singh Nagar evokes in everyone’s mind a message of indomitable courage, sacrifice, and love for the motherland. A district named after such a brave son of India naturally inspires every child to excel in patriotism and duty. The school’s motto—“In pursuit of excellence”—is not just a phrase but a philosophy that is visible in the conduct of every student.
The Governor said that the vision of the school’s founders—moving beyond traditional education towards world-class learning—is evident in the achievements reflected in this programme. He also remembered Uttarakhand’s first Governor, the late Surjit Singh Barnala, at whose hands the foundation stone of this institution was laid. The seed he planted has today grown into a magnificent banyan tree.
The Governor stated that success in life is never the result of chance; it is the outcome of discipline, time management, and continuous hard work. His military life, he said, taught him that those who respect time emerge victorious even in the toughest challenges. He emphasised that life is not merely about acquiring knowledge but about absorbing high ideals. Respect for parents, teachers, and society is the true identity of a strong character. The purpose of education is not confined to marks—its real meaning lies in its wise application in life. Therefore, education should not be reduced to an examination tool but should be the foundation of personality development. Clear goals are essential in life, and the challenges along the way are steps to success, which can be overcome through patience and persistent effort. True leadership, he said, lies in teamwork, decision-making ability, and fulfilling responsibilities.
The Governor stated that today’s era is an era of rapid technological advancement. Students must welcome new ideas, experiment, learn, and move forward. It is possible that one innovative idea from a student could become the solution to a societal challenge. He said that the students represent a powerful generation of the Amrit Kaal, which will shape the future of India through knowledge, technological competence, strong values, and determined action. They possess the capability to position the nation as a global leader, bring positive changes in society, and lead India forward on the path toward becoming a developed, self-reliant, and world-leading nation.
The Governor urged students and teachers to dream such dreams that uplift the entire nation. At every step, they should think: “What can I do to help my state, my society, and my nation move forward?” He said that they possess the energy, capabilities, and potential that can lead India to new horizons and help achieve the vision of a developed India, an Atmanirbhar Bharat, and a Vishwa-Guru Bharat.
The programme was attended by Senior Superintendent of Police Manikant Mishra, Chief Development Officer Divesh Shashni, Additional District Magistrate Pankaj Upadhyay, Sub-Divisional Magistrate Dr Amrita Sharma, Principal Parmeen Kaur, Chairman Harminder Singh Brar, Secretary JP Sidhu, former Minister of State Rajesh Kumar, Harendra Singh Ladi, Abhay Pratap Singh, along with parents and students.
