Despite challenges, Nagaland on the road to progress — Governor

DIMAPUR — Governor of Nagaland La. Ganesan on Thursday said that since its formation as a state of the Indian Union, Nagaland state has overcome numerous challenges and made significant progress in various fields, including education, economy and infrastructure.

The governor, in his message to the people of Nagaland on the eve of the country’s 75th Republic Day, said that the state has also made great strides in preserving and promoting its rich cultural heritage.

Ganesan affirmed that the state’s annual Hornbill Festival has become a very popular event that showcases the cultural richness and diversity of Nagaland to the world.

“But dear friends, let us not rest on our laurels for with continued efforts and support, Nagaland has the potential to achieve even greater heights in the years to come. We need to address all our shortcomings including connectivity infrastructure and other infrastructures required for rapid economic progress. We have to unlock and translate our economic potential and improve the standard of living of our people.

“On this auspicious occasion, I give a clarion call to all my fellow citizens to work towards achieving our goal of a Vikshit Bharat 2047. Our state Nagaland cannot afford to miss the bus of development this time. Let us march together with integrity, determination and in unity in order to ensure a happy and prosperous future for all our citizens,” the governor said.

Extending his greetings to all fellow countrymen, Ganesan said that it was on this day 75 years ago that the people of India made a solemn promise to adopt the country’s Constitution and identified themselves as citizens of a sovereign democratic republic.

He said the celebration is the result of the blood, tears and toil of millions of Indian men and women who, along with the country’s founding fathers, freed the country from the yoke of foreign rule.

“As we celebrate, let us pay homage and re-dedicate ourselves to upholding the ideals of justice, liberty, and equality that they fought so valiantly to secure for us. Their vision, courage, and determination have laid the foundation for the prosperous and resilient democracy that we are privileged to be a part of today,” he said.

The governor went on to state that from establishing a robust democratic system to making remarkable strides in various fields, India’s journey as a republic has been marked by notable achievements in the last 75 years.

“One of the most significant achievements of India as a republic is its successful establishment of a democratic system. Despite being a diverse nation with multiple languages, cultures, and religions, India has maintained a functioning democratic system. The country has held regular free and fair elections, ensuring the participation of its citizens in the decision-making process,” he asserted.

Ganesan further maintained that the country has witnessed remarkable progress in various sectors, including healthcare, agriculture, transport infrastructure, science and technology, space exploration, pharmaceuticals and defence.

India’s rapid economic growth has also helped in lifting millions of countrymen out of poverty and improving the standard of living, he said.

“India’s achievements as a republic also extend to its efforts in social and cultural development. The country has made significant strides in promoting gender equality, eradicating social evils, and preserving its rich cultural heritage. Initiatives such as Beti Bachao Beti Padhao, Ayushman Bharat, Swachh Bharat Abhiyan, and Digital India have been instrumental in bringing about positive social change,” the governor added.