02-12-2025 : Address by the Hon’ble Governor on the Occasion of Assam and Nagaland Statehood Day.

Jai Hind!

First of all, on behalf of Uttarakhand, I extend my heartfelt greetings and best wishes to all the citizens of Nagaland and Assam. This day reminds us that India’s cultural, social, and geographical diversity is our true strength.

This celebration of State Formation gives us an opportunity to remember our roots, our culture, our struggles, and our pride. The history of every Indian state embraces countless stories, and together these stories have shaped the present and future of our nation.

Today’s occasion is a celebration of the indivisible spirit of our great nation, which has transformed diversity into strength and culture into identity. On the statehood day of vibrant, rich, and multi-colored states like Assam and Nagaland, we are not only celebrating the states themselves, but also saluting that India whose soul lies in the precious mantra: “Unity in Diversity.”

Nagaland symbolizes India’s unique tribal culture, vibrant traditions, and a courageous history. This land has given birth to heroes who not only preserved their identity but also contributed significantly to India’s independence and national pride.

Brave figures like Rani Gaidinliu proved that Indian women have always played a vital role in defending the nation and awakening society. The languages, folk dances, handicrafts, and traditional attire of Nagaland’s tribal communities are precious and rare chapters of Indian culture.

The world-famous Hornbill Festival showcases the richness of Nagaland on a global platform. This festival of colors, music, cultural performances, and traditional skills is not merely a tourist attraction, but a lively reflection of India’s cultural splendor.

Nagaland’s contribution to environmental and wildlife conservation is also remarkable. Due to its dedicated efforts in preserving endangered bird species, it is known as the “Falcon Capital of the World.” Its biodiversity, dense forests, and natural beauty make Nagaland truly the Switzerland of the East.

Similarly, Assam is known across the world for its glorious traditions, abundant natural wealth, and spiritual heritage. As the gateway to Northeast India, Assam is not only geographically important but also culturally the heartbeat of the nation.

From the joyous festival of Bihu to the Satra tradition and folk music, creativity, energy, and enthusiasm flow naturally through the soil of Assam. The Kamakhya Temple stands as a sacred center of India’s spiritual legacy, further enhancing the cultural and religious significance of Assam.

Assam’s natural beauty is unparalleled—Kaziranga and Manas National Parks, the majestic Brahmaputra River, and the lush green tea gardens are nature’s priceless gifts to this land. The world-famous Assam Tea contributes greatly to India’s economy, while Assam Silk has brought global recognition to Indian handicrafts.

Uttarakhand shares with Assam and Nagaland a deep connection—of natural beauty and spiritual heritage. Our mountains, rivers, forests, folk traditions, and reverence for nature bind us together in a sacred bond. All three states are leaders in environmental protection, cultural preservation, and promotion of human values.

India is among the world’s oldest civilizations because of its culture, spirituality, and ancient Vedic wisdom. We must take pride in our heritage and completely discard any colonial mindset.

As long as we do not accept our history, our traditions, our motherland, and our identity with pride, the task of nation-building will remain incomplete. When every citizen places society and nation above self, India will become stronger and development will remain secure.

We all know that national unity is the foundation of India’s progress. Many communities, many languages, many traditions—yet one Nation, one Flag, one Constitution, and one Culture—this is the strength of India.

Instilling a sense of Nation First in every citizen is the greatest need of the hour. When every individual contributes to the development of their state, only then can India realize the dream of a Developed India, Self-reliant India, and Vishwa-Guru India.

Our duty is to advance the pride of our respective states, prioritize our responsibilities towards society, and participate actively in the continuous process of nation-building.

At a time when technology has reduced distances, cultural exchange, communication, cooperation, and unity among states have become more important than ever.

Learning from each other, respecting each other, and understanding each other’s traditions strengthen national integration. This is the very essence of the “Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat” initiative, inspired and guided by our Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi Ji.

This initiative strengthens our commitment to national unity and leads the country toward collective progress. On this occasion, let us resolve to work sincerely for the progress of our states—this collective effort will fulfill the vision of a Developed India, Self-reliant India, and Vishwa-Guru India.

In conclusion, once again, I extend my heartfelt greetings to all the citizens of Assam and Nagaland on their Statehood Day. Your rich culture, hard work, courage, and dedication to the nation are India’s real strength.

I pray that peace, progress, good governance, and prosperity continue to flourish in both the states, and that you all together take India to new heights.

Jai Hind!