23-09-2025 : Address of the Hon’ble Governor at the “Shiksha Ki Baat” Student–Teacher Interaction
Jai Hind!
I am truly delighted and proud to join you all today in this innovative programme, “Shiksha Ki Baat”—“A Dialogue on Education.”
First, I convey my warm greetings to the learned teachers who shape the soul of our nation and to the dear students who will carry our country’s future forward. Discussing the importance of education is itself a sacred act, for education is the lamp whose light dispels the darkness of ignorance and illuminates the path of life.
As our scriptures say:
“Saa Vidyaa Yaa Vimuktaye”—that alone is true knowledge which liberates us and leads to self-upliftment.
The soil of Uttarakhand is not only Devbhoomi, the land of the gods, but also a holy land of learning and wisdom. From the hymns of the Vedas and Upanishads to the earliest gurukuls, this region has preserved a noble tradition of education. Rishikesh, Haridwar, Almora, and Nainital have long been centres of scholarship and spirituality. Swami Vivekananda reminded us that education enables a person to stand tall, become self-reliant, and grow strong. Today, continuing that tradition, “Shiksha Ki Baat” opens new dimensions of learning.
Our scriptures also declare:
“Gurur Brahma Gurur Vishnuh Gurur Devo Maheshwarah, Guruh Saakshaat Parabrahma Tasmai Shri Gurave Namah”—the Guru is creator, preserver, and transformer; the Guru embodies the Supreme. I bow to such revered teachers.
Respected Teachers,
You are the bedrock of nation-building. When the foundation is strong, the structure of the nation stands firm. In today’s era your responsibility is greater than ever: not only to teach lessons, but to instil values, confidence, and patriotism in every child.
The 21st century is the age of artificial intelligence, digital learning, and technological innovation. You must embrace technology to make education contemporary, strong, and of high quality. Along with imparting knowledge, it is vital to use modern tools in the classroom, conduct continuous assessment, and maintain a friendly dialogue with students.
The National Education Policy 2020 provides clear guidance in this direction. Technology can make education accessible and equitable for all. The Government of Uttarakhand’s initiative of 1,300 virtual classrooms is a shining example. I am pleased that this light of learning now reaches even the state’s remote and mountainous regions.
My Dear Students,
This is an age of competition, rich in opportunities but also full of challenges. I urge you not to see education merely as a path to employment, but as a way to achieve complete development of life.
As the Sanskrit saying goes:
“Vidyadhanam Sarvadhanam Pradhanam”—knowledge is the greatest wealth.
Cultivate self-discipline, self-control, and the habit of self-evaluation. Each day ask yourself: “What have I contributed to my nation and society today, and what more can I do tomorrow?” Dream big with open eyes, set lofty goals, and resolve to achieve them. Only those who take firm resolve reach the pinnacle of success.
True education does not merely fill our minds with facts; it makes us good human beings. Along with modern skills and technology, uphold moral values. Honour your parents, respect your teachers, cherish our culture, and fulfil your duties as responsible citizens. India needs young people who possess knowledge, discipline, integrity, and patriotism.
One pressing challenge is the menace of addiction. I appeal to every student: stay far away from all intoxicants. They destroy health and swallow dreams. Teachers, I urge you to lead a movement against this danger and guide students to stay safe.
The state government continues to introduce new initiatives in education—expanding virtual classrooms, using modern technology, strengthening school infrastructure, appointing teachers, and providing scholarships to improve quality.
This visionary programme “Shiksha Ki Baat” reflects the foresight and dedication of our Education Minister Dr. Dhan Singh Rawat. I warmly congratulate and thank him.
Our Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has repeatedly said, “Today’s students are the architects of a developed India in 2047.” Indeed, only through education can India move toward becoming a world leader. Education will make us self-reliant, and a self-reliant India will pave the way for a developed India.
Dear students, the dreams in your eyes are the future of our country. Every effort you make, every success you achieve, strengthens our nation. Remember the wisdom:
“Udyamena hi siddhyanti karyaani na manorathaih;
Na hi suptasya simhasya pravishanti mukhe mrigaah”—
Work is accomplished through effort, not mere wishes; the deer never enters the mouth of a sleeping lion.
Work hard for your dreams, keep faith in yourselves, and dedicate your strength to nation-building.
Respected Teachers, your words and your actions shape your students. Guide them to be not only successful but also virtuous.
Let us together pledge that through the power of education we will make Uttarakhand a centre of academic excellence and contribute mightily to the vision of a Developed India by 2047.
In closing, I extend heartfelt congratulations to all who have made “Shiksha Ki Baat” a success. May your dedication to the cause of education bear abundant fruit.
Jai Hind!