11-11-2026 : Address by the Hon’ble Governor of Uttarakhand Civic Felicitation and State-Level Meritorious Talent Recognition Ceremony.

Respected dignitaries, honourable public representatives, Shri Vishal Bisen Ji, District President of the Panwar Samaj, office-bearers of social and religious organisations, distinguished citizens, respected elders, members of the gathering, young friends, and the meritorious candidates selected in the Madhya Pradesh Public Service Commission examinations,

First and foremost, I offer my heartfelt salutations to this sacred land!

Being amidst all of you in this warm and affectionate gathering fills me with immense pride and emotional fulfilment. Since assuming the constitutional office of Governor, returning to my home state of Madhya Pradesh and being among the people of my former parliamentary constituency, Balaghat-Sewni, is an exceptionally touching and memorable occasion for me. It is an opportunity to relive years of cherished relationships, fond memories and affection.

No matter how high one rises in life, one’s roots always remain firmly connected to one’s motherland, values and society. The culture of this region, the simplicity of its people, their resilience and warmth have always remained etched in my memory. I remain deeply grateful to my parents, teachers and all those who have guided my life’s journey through their affection, blessings and wisdom.

My journey in public life began with medical service, followed by opportunities to serve in various capacities as a Member of the Legislative Assembly, Cabinet Minister in the Government of Madhya Pradesh and Member of Parliament. Throughout this journey, your affection, trust and blessings have remained my greatest strength. Having begun my journey in a small village, the warmth and sense of belonging extended by my own people hold a special place in my heart.

Today, I have been entrusted with the opportunity to discharge my constitutional responsibilities as the Governor of Devbhoomi Uttarakhand. Upholding the dignity of this office, while remaining committed to the Constitution, democratic values and constitutional traditions, is both a matter of honour and a profound responsibility. Uttarakhand, adorned with the origins of the sacred rivers Ganga and Yamuna, the revered Char Dham and the extraordinary grandeur of the Himalayas, is a land of spiritual consciousness, valour and India’s rich knowledge traditions.

Both Madhya Pradesh and Uttarakhand are blessed with a rich cultural consciousness, spiritual heritage and deep spirit of patriotism. Carrying forward the values and traditions that I have imbibed from this sacred land of Madhya Pradesh, I shall continue to endeavour to contribute meaningfully to the progress of our nation through education, research, youth empowerment, environmental conservation and public welfare.

Today’s programme holds special significance. The Civic Felicitation Ceremony, alongside the Madhya Pradesh State-Level Meritorious Talent Recognition Ceremony, reflects the glorious traditions of society and its commitment towards the future generations. I am particularly pleased that this event has not been confined to any one community, but has ensured the participation of citizens from all sections of society, social institutions and religious organisations. This is the true strength of India’s cultural ethos and social harmony.

I extend my heartfelt appreciation to Shri Vishal Bisen Ji, District President of the Panwar Samaj, and his entire executive committee for this commendable initiative. Their efforts to bring different communities and institutions together on a common platform are highly appreciable and represent a meaningful step towards social unity and harmony. Bringing society together is, indeed, one of the greatest forms of service.

I firmly believe that youth power is the greatest strength of any nation and the foundation of its bright future. Swami Vivekananda Ji inspired young people to cultivate self-confidence, strength of character and dedication towards the nation. His immortal call, “Arise, awake, and stop not until the goal is reached,” continues to serve as a beacon of inspiration and guidance for every young individual.

Dear young friends,

Today, we are recognising and honouring meritorious candidates who have been selected in various examinations conducted by the Madhya Pradesh Public Service Commission. Such occasions not only recognise talent but also inspire countless other students to strive for excellence, work hard and remain committed to their goals.

I wholeheartedly congratulate all the successful candidates. Your achievement is the outcome of your hard work, discipline and perseverance. You are now preparing to shoulder important responsibilities in governance and public administration. My advice to you is simple: make your position an instrument of service, not a source of arrogance. While discharging your responsibilities, always give priority to the voice and needs of the last person in society. Your achievement will undoubtedly inspire many students and young aspirants present here today.

Always remember that no goal is impossible when talent is supported by hard work, determination is strengthened by resolve, and efforts are sustained through consistency. Success is not merely about securing good marks or attaining a prestigious position; its true meaning lies in bringing positive change to society and the nation through your knowledge, skills and abilities. Our daughters, too, are setting new benchmarks in education, science, medicine, administration, sports and several other fields. Providing them equal opportunities, encouragement and the confidence to move forward is our collective responsibility.

My dear friends,

The e-library established by Shri Vaibhav Bisen Ji, Sarpanch of Garra village, in the memory of Bharat Ratna and revered former Prime Minister Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee Ji, is a commendable and visionary initiative. I congratulate him wholeheartedly for this innovation. It is not merely a library but a gateway to knowledge and new opportunities for students and young people in rural areas.

Through this initiative, local students will have better access to digital resources, study materials and facilities for preparing for competitive examinations. I am confident that this initiative will create new opportunities for rural talent and strengthen the culture of learning and knowledge acquisition among young people.

The Balaghat-Sewni region has a distinctive identity owing to its natural wealth, forest resources and rich cultural heritage. I am confident that the effective utilisation of local resources, talent and people’s collective potential will help this region scale new heights of development. At the same time, preserving our natural and cultural heritage alongside development remains our shared responsibility.

Under the leadership of Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi Ji, India is progressing with the resolve of building a Viksit Bharat by 2047. Youth power, women power, farmers’ strength and the power of knowledge will play a decisive role in realising this national vision. I call upon our young people to take the lead in knowledge and science, research, innovation, entrepreneurship and emerging technologies. We must build an India that is economically and technologically self-reliant and capable, while remaining equally rich in its culture, traditions and human values.

Today’s affectionate felicitation in my former parliamentary constituency holds a special emotional significance for me. The people of this region once placed their trust in me by electing me as their representative and sending me to Parliament. To receive such affection and respect from the same people after assuming the responsibilities of Governor is an unforgettable experience. I regard this felicitation not as a personal achievement, but as a reflection of the trust, blessings and affection of the people of this region. Your warmth and goodwill will always remain a source of inspiration and strength for me.

I urge the younger generation to take pride in their values and cultural heritage, empower themselves through knowledge and skills, and dedicate their talents to the service of society and the nation. Always remember that the true purpose of life is not defined by position or prestige, but by the positive difference we make in the lives of others through our actions.

Our birthplace gives us our values, our society gives us our identity, and service to the nation gives our lives their true meaning.

Your affection, respect and warm welcome will always remain unforgettable for me. I sincerely wish this region continued progress, prosperity and a bright future.

My heartfelt gratitude to each one of you!

Vande Mataram!

Bharat Mata Ki Jai!