Raj Bhavan Hosts Foundation Day Celebration of Himachal Pradesh, Gujarat and Maharashtra States

Aizawl | May 1, 2025: Under the initiative of ‘Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat,’ the Governor of Mizoram, General (Dr) Vijay Kumar Singh, PVSM, AVSM, YSM (Retd), led the celebration of the Foundation Day of Himachal Pradesh, Gujarat and Maharashtra States at the Durbar Hall, Raj Bhavan, Aizawl.

In his address, Mizoram Governor General (Dr) Vijay Kumar Singh (Retd) highlighted the objectives of the 'Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat' programme, initiated by the Hon’ble Prime Minister to promote national integration and appreciation of India’s cultural diversity. He emphasized that the celebration of the Foundation Days of these three states serves as a symbol of unity in diversity and strengthens the spirit of togetherness across regions and cultures. “Despite regional and cultural differences, our ability to stay united reflects the spirit of a progressive and great India,” he stated. He further noted that India’s harmony and resilience serve as an example to the world.

The Governor offered brief insights into each of the states being honored. He described Himachal Pradesh as a state renowned for its natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. Maharashtra was lauded as a vibrant and economically significant state, home to the historic Maratha legacy, the financial capital Mumbai, and a tradition of spiritual harmony. Regarding Gujarat, the Governor praised its progressive development and historical significance as the birthplace of national leaders such as Mahatma Gandhi and Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel. He encouraged the audience to deepen their knowledge of the culture, language and history of these states.

The programme was hosted by Pi Manisha Padhi, ADC to the Governor, who also explained the importance of the event. Recorded messages from the Governors of Maharashtra, Shri C.P. Radhakrishnan and Gujarat, Shri Acharya Devvrat, were presented alongside a video showcasing key aspects of each state. Dr. Neeraj Thakur, Assistant Professor at the College of Veterinary Science & Animal Husbandry and Dr. Sanjay D. Sawant, Director of RIPANS, delivered brief overviews of Himachal Pradesh and Maharashtra, respectively. Students from RIPANS and Government Aizawl West College presented cultural performances reflecting the rich traditions of India. Following the formal proceedings, the Governor hosted a reception for the attendees at the Banquet Hall of Raj Bhavan.

Himachal Pradesh was established as a Part C state of the Indian Union on April 15, 1948 and attained full statehood on January 25, 1971. Maharashtra and Gujarat were formed on May 1, 1960 following the bifurcation of the erstwhile Bombay State.

The 'Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat' initiative aims to foster stronger cultural ties and understanding among the various states and union territories of India. Under this programme, the Raj Bhavan in Mizoram has been organizing Foundation Day celebrations since June 2023.