24-06-2026 : Address by Hon’ble Governor at the Launch of the Book “Nainital’s Journey and the Remarkable Story of the Construction of the Gothic Raj Bhavan” and AI Heritage & Tourism App.

Jai Hind!

Distinguished guests, eminent scholars, students, ladies and gentlemen present here today, my respectful greetings to all of you.

Today’s occasion is one of special joy and satisfaction for me. On the one hand, we are unveiling an important book titled “From Past to Present: The Journey of Nainital and the Remarkable Saga of the Construction of the Gothic Raj Bhavan”; on the other, we are launching the AI Heritage & Tourism App, developed under the guidance of the AI Theme Room at Lok Bhavan. This occasion is not only the beginning of two significant initiatives, but also a celebration of the remarkable confluence of heritage and innovation, history and the future, tradition and technology.

Friends,

Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi ji has given the nation the mantra of “Vikas bhi, Virasat bhi”—development along with heritage. Today’s event is a living embodiment of that vision. On one hand, we are preserving and documenting our historical heritage; on the other, we are making an innovative effort to take it to the younger generation through modern technology and artificial intelligence.

Lok Bhavan is not merely a magnificent structure of stones, walls, and architecture. It is a living centre of Uttarakhand’s administrative, cultural, and historical memory. It is a place that has witnessed numerous historic events—from the colonial era to independent India. It has had the privilege of bearing witness to the transfer of power, the strengthening of democracy, the formation of the state of Uttarakhand, and the nation’s onward journey toward a developed India.

When we look at the story of the construction of this building, it appears not merely as an architectural achievement, but as an inspiring saga of human determination, labour, and foresight. Nearly 125 years ago, when there were no proper roads leading here and there was inadequate provision for electricity and water, this grand structure was built under extremely difficult circumstances. It stands as testimony to the dedication, craftsmanship, and extraordinary efficiency of the engineers, artisans, and workers of that era.

I felt that the story of this building should not remain confined to archival records alone. It ought to be preserved for future generations. It was with this spirit that the idea of this book was conceived. I am pleased that senior journalist, educationist, and researcher Dr. Girish Ranjan Tiwari, through deep study, research, and tireless effort, has transformed this vision into an outstanding book.

This book is not merely a history of the construction of Raj Bhavan; it is also an important document of Nainital’s cultural journey, Uttarakhand’s heritage, and the social milieu of that period. I am confident that this book will prove equally valuable to researchers, historians, students, and general readers alike. I extend my heartfelt congratulations and best wishes to Dr. Girish Ranjan Tiwari for this excellent work.

Friends,

If books are a means of preserving our memories, technology is a powerful medium for taking them to society at large. It is with this very idea that the AI Heritage & Tourism App has been developed under the AI Theme Room of Lok Bhavan.

Today, the world is entering a new era of artificial intelligence. India, too, is moving swiftly toward taking a leading role in this transformation. We must ensure that technology does not remain merely a tool of convenience, but also becomes a medium for the preservation of culture, history, and society.

This AI Heritage & Tourism App is the result of that very vision. It is an innovative effort to bring the heritage of Lok Bhavan, Nainital, and Uttarakhand to the people in a digital form. Through the AI Heritage Guide, anyone can access historical information. The Smart Itinerary Planner offers visitors travel experiences tailored to their interests. The Interactive Time Capsule presents an engaging dialogue between the past and the present.

I am particularly pleased that the app also includes a community participation-based concept such as “Hidden Gems.” Through this feature, local citizens will be able to share lesser-known yet significant places in their region, traditional cuisine, sites of natural beauty, and cultural heritage. This will not only promote tourism, but also open new opportunities for local communities and small businesses.

In Uttarakhand, tourism is not merely an economic activity. It is deeply connected with our culture, our folk traditions, our faith, and our natural splendour. Therefore, we must promote a model of tourism that is sensitive, responsible, and empowering for local communities. This app is an important step in that direction.

Dear Friends,

India’s civilization is thousands of years old. In our tradition, knowledge has not merely been stored; it has been passed on from generation to generation. Today, when we speak of artificial intelligence, we must also remember that India’s true strength lies in its cultural wisdom, spiritual vision, and human values. If modern technology is aligned with these values, it can become an extremely effective instrument for social and national development.

The resolve of Viksit Bharat 2047 is not merely a goal of economic progress. It is a commitment to building an India that is culturally aware, technologically capable, environmentally sensitive, and deeply connected to its roots. In achieving this goal, both our heritage and our capacity for innovation are equally important.

The book released today connects us to our past, while the AI Heritage & Tourism App launched today shows us the direction of the future. One tells us where we have come from; the other shows us where we must go. Together, they present the picture of an India that is rooted in its traditions and moving forward with confidence toward the future.

I extend my heartfelt congratulations to Shri Siddharth Madhav, the experts, technical team, researchers, and all collaborators associated with this important initiative. I am confident that this book and this digital platform will, in the coming years, become exemplary models in the fields of heritage conservation, cultural awareness, and responsible tourism.

With these words, I convey my best wishes for the successful publication of the book and for the bright future of the AI Heritage & Tourism App.

Thank you very much.

Jai Hind.
Jai Uttarakhand.