Itanagar, Aug 16: Arunachal Pradesh Governor Lt Gen (Rerd) KT Parnaik on Saturday called upon citizens to contribute towards building a prosperous, peaceful and self-reliant India, guided by the spirit of unity in diversity and devotion to the motherland.
Addressing the 80th Independence Day celebration at Lok Bhavan here, the Governor said the occasion was a sacred reminder of the sacrifices of countless freedom fighters whose courage, determination and selfless service secured the country's liberty. He urged the people to honour the legacy of national heroes and the freedom fighters of Arunachal Pradesh, saying their patriotism continues to inspire the values of democracy, justice, equality, unity and service to the nation.
The Governor said the country is marking 80 years of Independence this year while also commemorating the 150th anniversary of Vande Mataram. He described the immortal song as a source of inspiration during the freedom movement and said it continues to symbolise patriotism, national pride and the collective destiny of the nation.
Highlighting Arunachal Pradesh's development journey, Parnaik said the State has made remarkable progress in infrastructure, education, healthcare, entrepreneurship, tourism, agriculture, horticulture, hydropower and skill development.
He said various initiatives targeting youth, women, farmers and self-help groups are creating new avenues of livelihood and empowerment. Focused development of border villages, he added, is also opening up opportunities for local communities while strengthening self-reliance and the country's border areas.
The Governor also highlighted initiatives undertaken by Lok Bhavan in the areas of administrative reforms, sports and fitness, organic farming and promotion of the Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat programme. Such initiatives, he said, seek to improve governance, encourage healthy and sustainable lifestyles and provide schoolchildren with greater exposure to India's rich cultural heritage.
Parnaik stressed that nation-building is a collective responsibility and called upon citizens, particularly the younger generation, to work with sincerity, discipline and a sense of service. He urged the people to preserve the unity and integrity of the country while contributing to its progress.
The Governor, earlier, hoisted the Tricolour at Lok Bhavan and received the Guard of Honour presented by the Echo Company of the 33rd Battalion of the Indo-Tibetan Border Police attached to Lok Bhavan.
The celebration featured a soulful rendition of Vande Mataram by students of Rajiv Gandhi University. Gollo Aniya of Let's Speak Arunachal delivered an address on the significance of Independence Day and encouraged citizens, especially the youth, to uphold the values of unity, service and national responsibility.
The programme also witnessed the prize distribution ceremony for the Independence Day Lok Bhavan Games and Sports Competition. Participants were recognised for their enthusiasm, teamwork and sporting spirit, while referees and organisers were felicitated for their contribution to the successful conduct of the competitions.
A special citation was presented to Geyir Ete in recognition of her contribution to public communication and exemplary service in anchoring and conducting important State functions with professionalism and commitment.
As part of efforts to promote sincerity and dedication among Lok Bhavan officials, the Governor presented Best Employee Awards to Sipiyang Pangkam, Gopal Darnal, Gulam Mustapa and Abhijeet Roy. The Governor and his better half Anagha Parnaik distributed sweets among participating schoolchildren and officials.