SHIMLA: In a collaborative effort by Nehru Yuva Kendra and the Indo Tibetan Border Police (ITBP), Governor Shiv Pratap Shukla presided over a program at Raj Bhavan.
The campaign, initiated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on India's 75th Independence Day, is dedicated to honoring the unsung heroes and brave hearts of India's villages and towns.
Young volunteers have been diligently collecting soil and plants from various corners of the country. This soil, gathered in 7500 earthen pots from across India, will find its place in the construction of Amrit Vatika in New Delhi.
The saplings collected will also be planted in the Shaheed Vatika, ensuring that the supreme sacrifices made by martyrs are remembered for generations to come.
Governor Shukla emphasized the profound importance of one's homeland and birthplace, asserting that it surpasses heaven itself.
He commended India as the land of warriors, where every region has given birth to exceptional freedom fighters and soldiers who have made immense sacrifices for the nation.
The 'Meri Maati Mera Desh' campaign has witnessed massive public participation, largely due to the far-sightedness and patriotism of Prime Minister Modi. Governor Shukla praised the Prime Minister's efforts and underscored that this program would go a long way in strengthening the spirit of patriotism among the younger generation.
The Governor expressed his gratitude towards the Central Government's initiative to preserve the memories of these heroes and underscore their vital role during the freedom struggle.
He called upon all sections of society to honor and respect the country's brave soldiers and praised the ITBP Jawans deployed in challenging border areas.
In a symbolic gesture, Governor Shukla flagged off the earthen pots collected from various locations in the state, sending them on their way to New Delhi.
He also urged Nehru Yuva Kendra volunteers visiting New Delhi to proudly represent Himachal Pradesh, highlighting the state's rich history as the home of soldiers, including Major Somnath, the recipient of India's first Paramveer Chakra.
In his concluding remarks, Governor Shukla administered an oath to the public, encouraging them to actively participate in the endeavor to make India a developed nation.
The event featured presentations on the achievements of Nehru Yuva Kendra and included the presentation of a memento to the Governor by Commandant CRPF Kedar Rawat.
The program was attended by several dignitaries, including MP Suresh Kashyap, Secretary Education Rakesh Kanwar, Secretary to the Governor Rajesh Sharma, and Vice Chancellor Dr. Y.S. Parmar Horticulture and Forestry University, Nauni, Rajeshwar Chandel.
