Srinagar, October 3, 2025 – Lieutenant Governor Shri Manoj Sinha today paid solemn tributes to Pujya Mahatma Gandhi on his Janm Jayanti, marking the 156th birth anniversary of the Father of the Nation. Addressing a grand UT-level function commemorating the occasion in Srinagar, the LG highlighted how Gandhiji’s timeless principles of selfless service (Sewa) and duties (Kartavya) continue to inspire the nation’s journey towards building a Viksit Bharat – a developed India.In his evocative speech, LG Sinha underscored that with economic prosperity as the foundation, the vision is to foster a society powered by moral force, rooted in equity and justice. “The principles of selfless service-Sewa & Duties-Kartavya to which Gandhiji was committed will guide us in the journey of building ‘Viksit Bharat’. With economic prosperity, we are determined to build a society powered by moral force and based on equity and justice,” he stated, drawing applause from the gathered dignitaries, students, and educators.LG Sinha further emphasized the enduring relevance of Bapu’s ideals in today’s world.
“The ideals of Bapu are a source of inspiration for entire humanity and it is the collective responsibility of the society to inculcate the values of non-violence, truth, tolerance, and compassion in the young generation,” he remarked. He called upon the youth to embrace these values to address contemporary global challenges that threaten peace and stability.The event, organized under the aegis of the Sewa Parv initiative, saw enthusiastic participation from across Jammu and Kashmir. LG Sinha congratulated districts and schools for their outstanding contributions during the Sewa Parv activities, felicitating members of the Gandhi Global Family, Sant Nirankari Mission, and volunteers of the Har Ghar Tiranga Campaign. He urged the public to promote Swadeshi by supporting products from Self Help Groups (SHGs) and Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), echoing Gandhiji’s call for self-reliance.
Extending warm greetings on the occasion, LG Sinha also paid homage to former Prime Minister Shri Lal Bahadur Shastri on his birth anniversary, reinforcing the theme of national service and simplicity.The function was attended by Chief Secretary Shri Atal Dulloo, President of Gandhi Global Family J&K and Padma Shri awardee Dr. SP Varma, Additional Chief Secretary (Higher Education) Shri Shantmanu, Principal Secretary (Culture) Shri Brij Mohan Sharma, Secretary (School Education) Shri Ram Niwas Sharma, along with senior officials, heads of educational institutions, teachers, and a large number of students.Gandhi Jayanti celebrations across the Union Territory included cleanliness drives, awareness campaigns, and community service programs, aligning with the spirit of Sewa and Gandhian philosophy. These events not only honor the Mahatma’s legacy but also reinforce the commitment to his vision of a harmonious, equitable society.As Jammu and Kashmir joins the nation in commemorating this historic day, LG Sinha’s message serves as a clarion call for collective action towards a Viksit Bharat, where moral and ethical values underpin sustainable progress.