Leh, Nov 9: Uttarakhand Foundation Day was celebrated with enthusiasm at the Lieutenant Governor’s Secretariat, Ladakh, in the presence of the Hon’ble Lieutenant Governor, Shri Kavinder Gupta, along with members of the armed forces and paramilitary personnel from Uttarakhand presently serving in Ladakh.
Extending warm greetings to the people of Uttarakhand, the Lt Governor highlighted India’s remarkable journey from being a collection of princely states to an integrated and united nation. He paid rich tribute to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, whose vision and determination laid the foundation for a unified Bharat, nurturing a deep sense of patriotism and national pride.
The Lt Governor observed that the Central Government has always responded to the aspirations of the people by reorganising states to ensure better governance and regional representation. He recalled that Uttarakhand, carved out as Uttaranchal in 2000 under the leadership of former Prime Minister Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee, stands as a shining example of such progressive reform, reflecting both administrative foresight and respect for local identity.
Drawing parallels between Uttarakhand and Ladakh, the Lt Governor remarked that both regions are blessed with natural splendour, rich cultural and spiritual heritage, and a shared commitment to national service. Recalling Ladakh’s transformation since attaining Union Territory status, he said the region has witnessed rapid infrastructure development, inclusive growth, and youth empowerment through various skill-building initiatives.
Praising Uttarakhand as *Dev Bhoomi*, home to sacred shrines such as Badrinath and Yamunotri, the Lt Governor lauded the invaluable contribution of its people to the armed forces and the nation.
In conclusion, the Lt Governor commended the unwavering patriotism of Uttarakhand’s citizens and reaffirmed his resolve to uphold the spirit of unity and progress across all regions of India.
A video message from Hon’ble Governor of Uttarakhand, Lt. Gen. Gurmit Singh, was also screened. Earlier, Under Secretary to the Lt Governor, Shri Sachin Bali, JKAS, conducted the proceedings of the programme.
