Vande Mataram is the Pulse of Our Soul,” Says Governor Anandiben Patel on Uttarakhand’s 25th Foundation Day

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Lucknow/Dehradun: On the occasion of Uttarakhand’s 25th Foundation Day, Uttar Pradesh Governor Anandiben Patel virtually participated in the ‘Uttarakhand Cultural Mahakumbh’ and emphasized the significance of the national song Vande Mataram. She said, “Vande Mataram is not just a collection of words; it is the heartbeat of our soul, a symbol of our identity, and a luminous heritage of pride.”

Celebrating Uttarakhand’s Achievements

Governor Patel extended her heartfelt wishes to all Uttarakhand residents on the state’s silver jubilee. Highlighting the state’s progress under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visionary leadership, she praised Uttarakhand’s achievements in agriculture, tourism, rural entrepreneurship, horticulture, and organic farming. During the ceremony, the logos of ITITI Dehradun Culture School’s silver jubilee and the Atal Bihari Vajpayee Centenary Educational Journey were unveiled.

Honouring Brave Women

Governor Patel also recognized courageous women working in tribal education and border areas, including Colonel Sophia Qureshi, Veer Nang Sati Meen, and others, for their exemplary contributions. She noted that the success stories of these women would serve as inspiration for the next generation.

Spiritual and Cultural Significance of Uttarakhand

“Uttarakhand is not merely a collection of mountains, rivers, and valleys, but the living embodiment of India’s spiritual soul,” she said. Highlighting the Raj Bhavan’s initiative symbolically linking Gangotri to Gangasagar, she emphasized the importance of protecting rivers and preserving heritage for future generations. She also lauded innovations by schoolchildren, including Smart Car, Saving Robot, Wi-Fi Car, and Smart Goggles, showcasing the state’s growing focus on creativity and technology.

Education and Nation-Building

Governor Patel stressed that education is not just knowledge, but a tool to build character, values, and the nation’s future. She highlighted that India’s journey towards becoming a developed nation by 2047, as envisioned by the Prime Minister, depends on the youth. She added that the 150th golden year of Vande Mataram reminds everyone of sacrifice, patriotism, and unity.

Colonel Sophia Qureshi Inspires Youth

Colonel Sophia Qureshi, a distinguished officer of the Indian Army, addressed the youth, emphasizing discipline, self-reliance, and positive thinking. She said, “Youth who utilize their time, understanding, and energy effectively will become the nation’s future builders.” She urged young people to avoid spreading misinformation on social media and channel their energies towards nation-building, with unity, self-reliance, and innovation as guiding principles.

The event highlighted Uttarakhand’s cultural pride, educational initiatives, and the role of youth and women in shaping a strong and self-reliant India.