

my uttarakhand news Bureau
Dehradun, 22 Jan: Under the “Ek Bharat–Shreshtha Bharat” programme, the State Foundation Days of various states were celebrated with great enthusiasm at Lok Bhawan. As part of this initiative, the State Foundation Days of Uttar Pradesh, Tripura, Manipur, and Meghalaya, which fall this week, were observed. Artists from these states presented vibrant cultural programmes based on their respective traditions, folk customs, and cultural heritage, vividly reflecting the unity inherent in India’s diversity.
Addressing the programme, the Governor, Lt Gen Gurmit Singh (Retd), extended his heartfelt greetings to the people of the concerned states on their State Foundation Days. He said that this event is not merely a programme, but an opportunity to reflect upon the soul, consciousness, cultural diversity, and future of India. He stated that Uttar Pradesh, Tripura, Manipur, and Meghalaya are strong pillars of India’s federal structure and play a vital role in strengthening unity amid diversity.
Lt Gen Singh said that the goal of becoming a Developed India, Self-Reliant India, and a Global Leader by 2047 can only be achieved by further strengthening unity, harmony, and the spirit of “Ek Bharat.” He emphasized that India’s greatest strength lies in its unity in diversity. Our civilization, culture, folk songs, dance, literature, and art are our identity and bind the nation together in a single thread.
Describing Uttar Pradesh as the center of India’s cultural, historical, and spiritual consciousness, the Governor said that from sacred places like Ayodhya, Kashi, and Prayagraj to new dimensions of modern development, the state has always provided direction to the nation. Praising Tripura, he highlighted its rich tribal culture, folk traditions, and social harmony, calling it an excellent example of unity in diversity.
Referring to Manipur as a land of courage, valor, and sporting talent, the Governor said that the state has enhanced India’s prestige at national and international levels. Appreciating the natural beauty, music, environmental consciousness, and sustainable development model of Meghalaya, he said that the state presents an inspiring example of development in harmony with nature.
Sharing experiences from his military career, the Governor said that he had the opportunity to serve in Uttar Pradesh, Manipur, Tripura, and Meghalaya, which he considers his privilege. He emphasized that it is essential for every Indian to know, understand, and respect one another, as India’s diversity is its true beauty.
The programme was attended by Cabinet Minister Satpal Maharaj, MLA Savita Kapoor, Vice Chairperson of the Uttar Pradesh State Women’s Commission Aparna Yadav, Secretary to the Governor Ravinath Ram, Legal Advisor Kaushal Kishore Shukla, Principal Secretary (Justice) Amit Kumar Sirohi, Secretary (Protocol) Shri Vinod Kumar Suman, Secretary (Culture) Yugal Kishore Pant, Additional Secretary to the Governor Reena Joshi, along with students from the participating states.
