22-01-2026 : Address by the Hon’ble Governor on the occasion of National Girl Child Day and the Foundation Days of various States

(Date: January 22, 2026)

Jai Hind!

Honourable guests, respected public representatives, distinguished citizens, and dear students,

Today’s auspicious occasion is extremely significant, inspiring, and deeply connected with national reflection. Today, we are celebrating National Girl Child Day along with the Foundation Days of Uttar Pradesh, Tripura, Manipur, and Meghalaya. This is not merely a formal event; rather, it is an opportunity to reflect upon the soul of India, its consciousness, its diversity, and its future.

This confluence of National Girl Child Day and the Foundation Days of various states conveys a powerful message: the future of the nation will be strong only when its daughters are empowered and when all its states progress together in an equitable manner.

National Girl Child Day reminds us that a girl child not only has the right to be born, but also the full right to dignity, safety, education, health, and self-reliance. The true measure of a civilized and strong society lies in how it treats its daughters. History bears witness that whenever society has provided girls with opportunities to move forward, they have reached new heights of excellence.

National Girl Child Day should not be merely a day of celebration, but a day of introspection and renewed resolve—that no girl child should be deprived of opportunities.

Under the leadership of Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi ji, the Central Government has launched several initiatives such as Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao, the Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana, the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam, women self-help groups, and digital literacy programmes. The objective of these initiatives is not only to implement schemes, but also to bring about a positive transformation in societal attitudes.

In a mountainous state like Uttarakhand, where geographical conditions are challenging, daughters are moving ahead with extraordinary courage and determination. Emerging from remote hills, our girls are showcasing their talent in fields such as education, medicine, administration, sports, science, the armed forces, and the police. During university convocation ceremonies, it gives me immense pleasure to note that more than 70 percent of the medal recipients are girls. This clearly reflects the special emphasis being placed on girls’ education in Uttarakhand.

It is a matter of pride for us that the daughters of Uttarakhand are not only becoming pillars of support for their families, but are also playing a vital role in society and nation-building. We must ensure that every girl child receives quality education, a safe environment, and opportunities to become self-reliant—whether she lives in a city or a remote rural area. Empowerment of girls is not merely the responsibility of the government; it is a moral duty of every section of society.

Today, we are also celebrating the Foundation Days of Uttar Pradesh, Tripura, Manipur, and Meghalaya. These states are strong pillars of India’s federal structure and vividly reflect the country’s diversity.

Uttar Pradesh has been a centre of India’s cultural, historical, and spiritual consciousness. From the sacred lands of Ayodhya, Kashi, and Prayagraj to new dimensions of modern development, Uttar Pradesh has continuously guided the nation. Its population, resources, and cultural heritage play a significant role in India’s progress.

Tripura, an important state of Northeast India, is known for its rich tribal culture, folk traditions, and social harmony. The state conveys the message that diverse languages, traditions, and cultures together strengthen the nation.

Manipur is a land of courage, valour, and sporting excellence. The state has given the country many international athletes and has brought pride to India on the global मंच through its strong cultural identity. Manipur teaches us that with discipline, hard work, and self-confidence, no goal is unattainable.

Meghalaya is renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty, music, environmental consciousness, and model of sustainable development. The state inspires us to pursue development while maintaining harmony with nature.

The journeys of all these states reaffirm that India’s strength lies in unity amidst diversity.

This joint occasion gives us an opportunity to understand that empowerment of girls and the holistic development of states are complementary to each other. When girls are educated and self-reliant, states become economically, socially, and culturally stronger.

An empowered daughter builds a strong family and society and lays the foundation of a strong nation. We must ensure the participation of girls and women at every level—from policy formulation to grassroots implementation. Along with education, special attention must be given to skill development, health, safety, and leadership opportunities.

On this sacred occasion today, we must take a few firm resolutions: that we will not accept any form of discrimination against girls; that we will make education their greatest right; that we will provide them every possible opportunity to become self-reliant; and that we will build an India where every daughter can fearlessly realize her dreams.

In conclusion, on the occasion of National Girl Child Day, I extend my heartfelt best wishes to all the daughters of the nation and the state. I also convey my warm congratulations and best wishes to all citizens of Uttar Pradesh, Tripura, Manipur, and Meghalaya on their Foundation Days.

Let us all take a collective pledge to give wings to the dreams of our daughters and, through the progress of our states, make India even stronger on the global stage.
Jai Hind!