JAMMU, JANUARY 30 – On the occasion of Mahatma Gandhi’s Punya Tithi, Lieutenant Governor Shri Manoj Sinha paid heartfelt tributes to the Father of the Nation, emphasizing the timeless relevance of Gandhiji’s principles of truth and non-violence.
At the Shanti Doot Sammelan organized by the Gandhi Global Family, the Lieutenant Governor honored the family members of brave army personnel, as well as leaders, fighters, and martyrs who dedicated their lives to India’s freedom struggle. He also felicitated youth and prominent citizens with the Gandhi Doot Samman for their contributions to society.
In his address, the Lieutenant Governor said, “The principles and values of truth and non-violence, to which Gandhiji was always committed, transcend time and place. They are as relevant today as they were during his lifetime. He has guided us in the peaceful resolution of differences and the well-being of every Indian.”
In a world increasingly torn by conflict and aggression, the LG remarked that the need for peace and non-violence is more vital than ever. He expressed confidence that Gandhiji’s ideals would continue to guide humanity in the right direction.
The Lieutenant Governor called on society to rededicate itself to Mahatma Gandhi’s values, focusing on empowering the poor, youth, women, and farmers. He reiterated that the welfare of the deprived should be the topmost priority of the government, and that society’s collective strength must bring the poorest of the poor into the mainstream of development. The motto, as Gandhiji once said, should be to “wipe tears from every eye.”
He also commended the Gandhi Global Family J&K for its efforts in promoting Gandhian values and spreading the message of truth, non-violence, and social harmony. In response to a request from Dr. S.P. Varma, President of Gandhi Global Family J&K, the LG assured that the month-long Gandhi Jayanti celebrations would continue across the region, as in previous years.
On this solemn occasion, the Lieutenant Governor was honoured with the Shanti Doot Samman by the Gandhi Global Family. Padma Shri awardees, including Dr. S.P. Varma, Prof. Vishwa Murti Shastri, Dr. Jitendra Udhampuri, and Sh. Romalo Ram, were also recognized for their contributions. Meritorious students and youth were felicitated with the Gandhi Doot Samman for their dedication to social good.
A two-minute silence was observed to honour Mahatma Gandhi and all those who made the supreme sacrifice in India’s freedom struggle. The gathering also pledged to uphold and promote Gandhi Ji’s vision, ideals, and philosophies.
The event was graced by the presence of prominent figures including Sh. Atal Dulloo, Chief Secretary; Sh. Anand Jain, ADGP Jammu; Sh. Ramesh Kumar, Divisional Commissioner, Jammu; and other retired and serving officials from the Civil Administration, Police, and Security Forces. Members of the Gandhi Global Family, family members of martyrs, freedom fighters, social organisations, and students were also in attendance. Legislators Sh. Yudhvir Sethi and Sh. Arjun Singh Raju, along with other prominent citizens, were also present to mark this momentous occasion.