Lucknow, Jan 22 (Reporter) Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Wednesday emphasised the significant role of Uttarakhand’s society in the development of Uttar Pradesh and the nation. Speaking at the closing ceremony of the Uttarayani Kauthik Mela 2025, organised by the Parvatiya Mahaparishad, the CM highlighted the remarkable contributions of notable figures from Uttarakhand who have brought pride to the nation. He recalled the legacy of Pandit Govind Ballabh Pant, the first CM of UP and a Bharat Ratna recipient, who also served as the Home Minister of India. He paid rich tributes to freedom fighters like Hemvati Nandan Bahuguna, a former CM of UP and Narayan Dutt Tiwari, who provided visionary leadership as the CM of both UP and Uttarakhand. Yogi acknowledged the contributions of General Bipin Rawat, the first Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), and Ajit Doval, the current National Security Advisor, both of whom hail from Uttarakhand. He said that Uttarakhand has also given many brave soldiers who sacrificed their lives for the nation's security. He lauded the efforts of the Parvatiya Mahaparishad in preserving Uttarakhand's traditions and culture. "I consider myself fortunate to be part of this programme," he said, congratulating the organisation for continuing the festival with unwavering enthusiasm for over two decades. The Uttarayani Kauthik Mela, held in cities like Lucknow, Bareilly, Ghaziabad and Meerut, provides a platform for cultural programmes, competitions and the celebration of heritage. The CM stressed the importance of honouring individuals and families who contribute to the nation, such as soldiers, martyrs and cultural icons. Acknowledging the honour bestowed upon Bhagat Singh Koshyari at this year's event, he praised his simplicity, dedication to the nation and experience as the former CM and Governor. Yogi reiterated the importance of remembering cultural and historical heritage while honouring the sacrifices of martyrs and celebrating significant milestones. He highlighted the significance of the day, marking one year since Lord Ram Lalla was ceremoniously enshrined at his birthplace in Ayodhya by the Prime Minister on January 22, 2024. He described this event as a continuation of India's rich heritage, as Lord Ram returned to Ayodhya after 500 years. He emphasised the role of folk traditions, stories, songs, literature and culture, in preserving and promoting this legacy. He affirmed that the ultimate goal is to realise the vision of Ek Bharat-Shrestha Bharat (One India, Great India), which draws strength from cultural unity and diversity. The event was attended by Cabinet Minister Suresh Khanna, Lucknow Mayor Sushma Kharkwal, Parvatiya Mahaparishad Chairman Ganesh Chand Joshi, Vice President Mohan Singh Bisht, General Secretary Mahendra Singh Rawat and Councilor Pramod Singh, among others...////...