20-06-2026:Governor participated in the West Bengal State Foundation Day event held at Lok Bhawan under the ‘Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat’ campaign.

Lok Bhavan Uttarakhand-Information Wing
Press Note

West Bengal is a Sacred Land of Indian Cultural Consciousness and National Renaissance: Governor

‘Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat’ Campaign is a Powerful Medium for Strengthening National Unity: Governor

Lok Bhavan Nainital 20 June, 2026

Governor Lieutenant General Gurmit Singh (Retd.) extended his greetings and best wishes to the people of the state and the citizens of West Bengal on the occasion of West Bengal State Foundation Day, celebrated under the “Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat” initiative at a program held at Lok Bhavan on Saturday.

On this occasion, the Governor stated that India’s diversity is its greatest strength, and it is this diversity that further reinforces national unity. He said that despite differences in languages, attire, and traditions, India’s cultural spirit, national consciousness, and shared heritage remain one. He emphasized that our highest identity is that of proud citizens of Mother India, and this sentiment embodies the true spirit of “Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat.”

The Governor noted that the “Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat” campaign, launched under the guidance of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has become an effective platform for strengthening cultural dialogue, emotional integration, and national harmony among different states of the country. He added that Lok Bhavans are evolving not merely as administrative institutions but as vibrant centers of national unity and cultural exchange.

Highlighting the historical, cultural, and spiritual contributions of West Bengal, the Governor said that the state has been a leading center of India’s social, cultural, and intellectual renaissance. Recalling the contributions of Raja Rammohan Roy, Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar, Swami Ramakrishna Paramahansa, Swami Vivekananda, Gurudev Rabindranath Tagore, Acharya Jagadish Chandra Bose, Satyendra Nath Bose, and Satyajit Ray, he stated that these eminent personalities gave Indian thought and culture global recognition.

The Governor observed that Swami Vivekananda’s association with the Mayawati Ashram in Uttarakhand and Gurudev Rabindranath Tagore’s connection with Ramgarh further strengthen the historical and cultural ties between the two states. He remarked that Bengal’s intellectual consciousness and Uttarakhand’s spiritual energy complement each other.

Referring to West Bengal’s contribution to India’s freedom struggle, the Governor said that “Vande Mataram” and “Jana Gana Mana” gave new direction to the nation’s consciousness, while Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose’s sacrifice, courage, and patriotism continue to inspire generations of Indians.

The Governor also noted that every year, a large number of pilgrims from West Bengal visit Uttarakhand for the Char Dham Yatra and other religious pilgrimages. He added that West Bengal’s Durga Puja and Uttarakhand’s Nanda Raj Jat Yatra and Maha Kumbh are powerful symbols of social harmony and national integration.

He further stated that West Bengal’s rich handloom and handicrafts tradition, along with Uttarakhand’s organic products, medicinal plants, and natural resources, can make significant contributions toward building an Atmanirbhar Bharat (Self-Reliant India). Calling upon the youth of both states, he urged them to work together in the fields of education, science, research, innovation, and entrepreneurship.

The Governor emphasized that the need of the hour is to rise above regional boundaries and move forward with a commitment to nation-building. He remarked that state boundaries exist for administrative purposes, not to divide hearts. He called upon everyone to carry forward India’s tradition of unity in diversity and actively contribute to the creation of a developed India.

The program also featured special presentations showcasing the culture, traditions, folk arts, and historical heritage of West Bengal. Secretary to the Governor, Mr. Ravinath Raman, Legal Advisor Mr. Kaushal Kishore Shukla, and other distinguished guests were present on the occasion.
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