Chandigarh, February 20: Mizoram and Arunachal Pradesh Foundation Day were celebrated today at Punjab Raj Bhawan. The celebrations provided an opportunity to bring India’s diverse cultural heritage on a common platform and reinforce the spirit of “Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat”. Various presentations showcasing the vibrant traditions and rich cultural tapestry of Mizoram and Arunachal Pradesh were presented during the event.

The Punjab Governor & Administrator Chandigarh Shri Gulab Chand Kataria and his wife Smt. Anita Kataria specially graced the occasion. In his address, Governor Shri Gulab Chand Kataria, highlighted the cultural, geographical and historical features of the two States and said that such events are important for strengthening national integration.

Describing Arunachal Pradesh as the “Land of the Rising Sun”, he said that it is the first State in India where the rays of the Sun fall first. He also brought into focus the historical and religious significance of Arunachal Pradesh where Sage Parashurama atoned for his sins, and Sage Vyasa meditated and Lord Krishna married Rukmini.

The Governor lauded Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi's initiative of "Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat" calling it a unique idea. He said that this idea binds the entire country in the thread of unity and provides an opportunity to know and share the vastly rich cultural heritage of all the states. He termed this initiative as an important step in strengthening national unity and integrity.

He also highlighted the agricultural production characteristics of Arunachal Pradesh and addressed it as the "Fruit Bowl of India" where important crops like oranges, kiwi and large cardamom are grown.

Speaking about Mizoram, the Governor emphasized its unique traditions and strong community spirit. He highlighted how the people of Mizoram have preserved their cultural identity while embracing progress. The state’s dedication to education, social harmony, and environmental conservation makes it a model for others to follow. He acknowledged Mizoram’s contribution to the nation and encouraged more people to explore and appreciate its cultural richness.

During the programme, documentaries related to both the states were shown, which gave the people an opportunity to get acquainted with the cultural and historical annals of these states. The cultural programmes presented by the students on the occasion included traditional folk dance and music of Mizoram and Arunachal Pradesh, which mesmerized the audience.

The programme was attended by Mayor Chandigarh Smt. Harpreet Kaur Babla, Chief Secretary Shri Rajiv Verma, Additional Chief Secretary to the Governor Shri K. Siva Prasad, Principal Secretary to Governor Shri Vivek Pratap Singh, DGP Chandigarh Shri Surendra Singh Yadav, Education Secretary Smt. Prerna Puri, Health Secretary Shri Ajay Chagti, Special Secretary to the Administrator Shri Abhijit Vijay Chaudhary and other senior officers of Chandigarh Administration were also present.