Himachal Pradesh News
Kavinder Gupta Takes Oath as 30th Governor of Himachal Pradesh, Sets Focus on Tourism, Education and Tribal Development
Kavinder Gupta was sworn in as the 30th Governor of Himachal Pradesh on Wednesday during a simple yet dignified ceremony held at Lok Bhavan in Shimla. The oath of office was administered by Chief Justice of the Himachal Pradesh High Court, GS Sandhawalia.
Kavinder Gupta was sworn in as the 30th Governor of Himachal Pradesh on Wednesday during a simple yet dignified ceremony held at Lok Bhavan in Shimla. The oath of office was administered by Chief Justice of the Himachal Pradesh High Court, GS Sandhawalia.
Several prominent leaders attended the ceremony, including Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, members of the state cabinet, Leader of Opposition Jai Ram Thakur, Chief Secretary Sanjay Gupta, and other senior officials. Haryana Governor Ashim Kumar Ghosh and his wife Mitra Ghosh were also present at the event.
Governor Promises Cooperation with State Government
Speaking to reporters after taking the oath, Governor Kavinder Gupta said he would work closely with the Himachal Pradesh government for the overall development of the state.
“The Governor’s office is a constitutional responsibility. It does not belong to any political party. My role will be to work for the welfare of the people and the progress of the state,” Gupta said.
Tourism, Environment and Education Among Top Priorities
Highlighting his key focus areas, Gupta said tourism, environmental protection and education would remain high on his agenda.
He noted that Himachal Pradesh holds immense potential for tourism, particularly religious tourism, and said efforts would be made to strengthen the sector further.
The Governor also acknowledged Himachal’s strong reputation in the field of education and stressed the importance of improving educational quality and expanding opportunities for students across the state.
Focus on Tribal Development and Natural Farming
Gupta said special emphasis would also be placed on tribal development, youth welfare, and the promotion of natural farming. Strengthening the ongoing campaign against drug abuse in the state will also remain a priority.
He further stated that the effective implementation of central government schemes would be encouraged to improve infrastructure and connectivity in remote areas of Himachal Pradesh.
Particular attention, he added, would be given to the development of border areas adjoining China, with initiatives such as the Vibrant Village Programme expected to play an important role.
Experience from Ladakh to Help in Himachal
Drawing on his previous experience as Lieutenant Governor of Ladakh, Gupta said he understands the challenges associated with mountainous regions.
“During my brief tenure in Ladakh, I travelled more than 10,000 kilometres in just seven months to reach remote areas and understand people’s concerns. I am familiar with the challenges of hilly terrain,” he said.
Patriotic Moment as ‘Vande Mataram’ Played at Ceremony
One notable feature of the oath-taking ceremony was the rendition of the national song Vande Mataram at both the beginning and the conclusion of the event.
All six stanzas of the song were performed, followed by the national anthem, creating a deeply patriotic atmosphere during the ceremony.
Officials at Lok Bhavan said this was the first time the full version of Vande Mataram had been sung at a Governor’s oath ceremony at the venue.
According to officials, the move aligns with earlier directions from the central government aimed at promoting wider awareness of the national song.
Governor Gupta later said efforts would be made to encourage educational institutions to play and sing the complete composition.
He admitted that many people, including himself, were familiar with only a small part of the song.
“When the entire song is played on official occasions, it helps people understand and remember it better,” he said.
