Governor Shri Mangubhai Patel stated that Uttarakhand and Jharkhand have been blessed with unique gifts of nature, with both states endowed with abundant wildlife and rich natural resources. He was addressing the Foundation Day celebrations of Uttarakhand and Jharkhand, held on Monday at Raj Bhavan under the ‘Ek Bharat–Shreshtha Bharat’ initiative. The Governor congratulated everyone on the states’ Foundation Day and praised the artists for their cultural performances. Goodwill messages from Uttarakhand Governor Lt. Gen. Gurmeet Singh and Jharkhand Governor Shri Santosh Gangwar were shared, alongside the screening of short films. Principal Secretary to the Governor, Dr. Navneet Mohan Kothari, was also present.
Governor Shri Patel noted that while Uttarakhand is renowned for its natural beauty and spiritual significance, Jharkhand is globally recognised for its rich mineral wealth and vibrant folk culture. He described Jharkhand, the land of the great tribal leader and freedom icon Bhagwan Birsa Munda, as an inspiration for the nation.
He emphasised that Foundation Day symbolises the historic journey of the formation of states and reminds us of India’s diversity, federal structure, and the unifying strength that gives the nation its unique identity. “This is not merely a cultural celebration, but a testament to our active participation in India’s collective development. We are here not as guests, but as dedicated partners in nation-building,” he said.
Governor Shri Patel also praised Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s initiative of celebrating the Foundation Days of all states at Raj Bhavan as exemplary, noting that such events energise the constitutional spirit of unity in diversity. He highlighted the cultural events held from 1 to 15 November at the Statue of Unity in Kevadia, Gujarat, which offered an unprecedented opportunity to experience India’s rich cultural heritage closely. He further stated that Prime Minister Modi’s visionary efforts have linked national development with public participation, cultural revival, and collective responsibility, strengthening national unity not just through territorial integrity but by respecting diverse ideas, cultures, and communities. The joint celebration of Uttarakhand and Jharkhand exemplifies this spirit. The ‘Ek Bharat–Shreshtha Bharat’ campaign fosters not only geographical but also social, cultural and emotional bridges across India.