Gujarat, Maharashtra Foundation Day Celebrated at Lok Bhavan Jammu | Kashmir Life

SRINAGAR: The Foundation Day of Gujarat and Maharashtra was celebrated at JK Lok Bhavan in Jammu on Friday in the presence of Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha.

Addressing the gathering, the Lieutenant Governor said Gujarat and Maharashtra serve as growth engines of the country and contribute significantly to India’s GDP and exports. He said both states also carry strong social, cultural and spiritual traditions.

He said Gujarat is known for its entrepreneurial spirit and simplicity, while Maharashtra is recognised for its enterprise, courage and spiritual heritage. He added that both states play an important role in India’s development journey.

The Lieutenant Governor referred to historical and national figures from Gujarat, including Mahatma Gandhi, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel and Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and said they contributed to shaping the country through their leadership and ideology. He said Gandhi’s principles of truth, non-violence and service continue to guide the nation.

He said Sardar Patel’s vision of unity remains central to India’s identity, adding that “Ek Bharat, Shreshth Bharat” reflects the strength of national integration.

Referring to Maharashtra, the Lieutenant Governor mentioned Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, Peshwa Bajirao, Bal Gangadhar Tilak, Vinayak Damodar Savarkar and Ahilyabai Holkar, saying they contributed to national unity, culture and spiritual traditions.

He said India has seen renewed confidence and development under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi over the past 12 years, adding that efforts have strengthened governance and public participation in development.

He also referred to the abrogation of Article 370 in August 2019, saying it completed what he described as Sardar Patel’s vision and strengthened national integration.