Jammu & Kashmir LG Shri Manoj Sinha today delivered a profound address during the Union Territory-level function celebrating the 155th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi at Raj Bhawan, marking a pivotal moment of reverence and reflection for the Father of the Nation. The event, jointly organised by the Department of School Education and Department of Higher Education, also served as the closing ceremony for the Swachhata Pakhwada and Swachhata Hi Seva Abhiyan, underscoring Gandhiji’s vision of cleanliness, truth, and non-violence. In his address, the LG extended heartfelt felicitations to the people, not only commemorating Gandhi Jayanti but also honouring the birth anniversary of former Prime Minister Shri Lal Bahadur Shastri, both symbols of selfless leadership and unwavering commitment to the nation. Paying rich tributes to Mahatma Gandhi, the LG highlighted how Gandhiji’s leadership and ideals unified the nation during its quest for independence and continue to shape India’s global role as a beacon of peace and progress. He emphasised that in today’s tumultuous world, the enduring values of Mahatma Gandhi—truth, non-violence, compassion, and kindness—are more relevant than ever, offering solutions to the pressing challenges facing humanity. He urged people, especially the youth, to embody and spread Gandhiji’s timeless vision to make this world a better, more peaceful place. “Bapu’s dream was that India would shine as a ray of hope for humanity—a peaceful, self-reliant, and developed nation,” said the LG. Reflecting on the transformative progress in Jammu and Kashmir over the past five years, he credited the leadership of Honourable Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi for empowering grassroots democracy and fostering violence-free elections. “Today, Jammu Kashmir is emerging from the shadows of its past and stepping confidently towards a new future,” he noted. He proudly shared that the recent assembly elections, with the participation of many citizens, demonstrated the strengthening of democratic values in the region. “Our youth have embraced the instruments of creation rather than destruction. They are following the path of truth and non-violence, building a prosperous society for generations to come.” He also lauded the School Education Department and the students for their commendable efforts in maintaining cleanliness across J&K, adopting local water bodies, parks, and heritage sites, and conducting cleanliness drives as a mark of respect to Mahatma Gandhi. He encouraged citizens to dedicate one day each month to similar activities, promoting collective responsibility for public spaces through initiatives like Shramdaan. In a gesture of encouragement, the LG felicitated students who excelled in various competitions organiSed as part of the Gandhi Jayanti celebrations. The event also featured captivating performances by artists and students, vividly portraying the life and values of Mahatma Gandhi, reminding everyone present of the profound impact Bapu’s teachings continue to have on society. The LG impassioned appeal to all sections of society to draw inspiration from Mahatma Gandhi’s life and work towards the welfare of the public echoed with deep resonance, reinforcing the collective commitment to building a brighter and more harmonious future for Jammu and Kashmir. Through his words and vision, LG Shri Manoj Sinha demonstrated that the path laid out by Mahatma Gandhi is not only a historical legacy but an ongoing journey for every citizen of this great nation.