Governor's message on Gandhi Jayanti 2021

Message of Governor Brig B.D. Mishra (Retd) on the occasion of 152th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi

My dear people of Mizoram, Chibai!

I bring you warm greetings as the country observes the 152nd Birth Anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi, ‘Father of the Nation’. On this auspicious occasion of Gandhi Jayanti, we are reminded of the teachings and the philosophies of the Mahatma, who held fast to his values and ideals while winning precious freedom for the Nation.

Gandhiji has remained a leading light not only for India, but for the world as a whole. His principles of truth (satya), non-violence (ahimsa) and Satyagraha continue to be our guiding force. In recognition of his immense stature in the global arena, the United Nations has declared 2nd October as the ‘International Day of Non-violence’.

The Government of India also continues to be guided by the teachings of Gandhiji. On his 150th Birth Anniversary in 2019, the country paid the best tribute to Mahatma Gandhi when the Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi declared India to be Open Defecation Free. Today, as we continuously strive to improve upon this momentous achievement, cleanliness has now become a way of life for many.

The Mahatma’s principle of non-violence has also assumed even greater significance in an increasingly divisive world. Gandhiji said, “Non-violence is the greatest force at the disposal of mankind. It is mightier than the mightiest weapon of destruction devised by the ingenuity of man.” This quote is especially relevant for our State of Mizoram. We must always remember Gandhiji’s words that non-violence is a weapon of the strong.

Gandhiji fought for freedom in all its dimensions – be it political, social or economic. Although we have gained valuable Independence under his leadership, it is our duty to achieve this vision of the many facets of freedom. The Mahatma stressed upon the twin concepts of self-reliance and self-confidence. These concepts are the pillars upon which Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has given a clarion call for an ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’.

Towards the realization of this self-reliance, Gandhiji vigorously promoted Khadi. The spinning wheel (charkha) became the symbol of his constructive program toward’s Swadeshi and self-sufficiency. I believe that this handloom industry is a huge potential for Mizoram. We have been blessed with valuable traditional knowledge, as well as diverse and colourful traditional dress. Let us make full use of this opportunity and expand our horizons even further.

Today, as we observe Gandhi Jayanti, I appeal to all the citizens to rededicate ourselves to the teachings of the Mahatma, and to work tirelessly for the realization of his dream of a self-reliant India.

Ka lawm e.

Jai Hind.