Governor launches ‘Rashtra Pratham–Nation First’ programme; calls for renewed commitment to National Duty;
‘Rashtra Pratham’ must guide every citizen’s commitment to nation: Governor
Guwahati,Rongili Barta: Assam Governor Shri Lakshman Prasad Acharya today launched the ‘Rashtra Pratham–Nation First’ programme at 51 Sub Area, Narengi, in the presence of General Officer Commanding (GOC), 51 Sub Area, Major General A.K. Sharma.
Envisaged as a guiding principle of responsible citizenship, ‘Rashtra Pratham’ calls upon every citizen to place national interest above personal considerations and contribute to the progress and prosperity of the country through honesty, discipline, dedication and a strong sense of duty.
Speaking on the occasion, Governor Shri Acharya said that the true love for the nation is expressed not only through words, but through a commitment to one’s duties and responsibilities. “Our love for India must inspire us to serve with sincerity, respect our fellow citizens and work towards building a stronger, more united and self-reliant nation. When every citizen embraces the spirit of ‘Rashtra Pratham’, national duty becomes a shared commitment and patriotism becomes a way of life,” the Governor said.
Paying rich tributes to the courage, valour and dedication of the Indian Armed Forces, the Governor said that ‘Nation First’ must remain the guiding principle of every citizen, inspiring people to rise above narrow personal interests and work for the security, dignity and prosperity of the country. He paid homage to the martyrs who made the supreme sacrifice in the service of the nation and expressed his heartfelt respect for the Veer Naris and families of the fallen soldiers.
The Governor acknowledged the untiring commitment of the Armed Forces in maintaining peace and stability in the Northeast, saying that their service has helped create a secure environment that provides a strong foundation for development, connectivity, education and employment in the region.
Underlining the vision of ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ and ‘Aatmanirbhar Defence Capability’, Shri Acharya said that India is steadily transforming from being primarily a buyer of defence equipment into a nation capable of designing, manufacturing and exporting advanced defence systems. He highlighted the contributions of scientists, engineers, defence industries, start-ups and the country’s youth in taking India’s journey from ‘Make in India’ to ‘Make for the World’.
The Governor also highlighted the growing participation of women in the Armed Forces, stating that India’s daughters are increasingly taking on challenging assignments and leadership responsibilities. He said that their contribution reflects the strength and potential of Nari Shakti in nation-building and national service.
Addressing the NCC and NSS cadets present at the programme, Shri Acharya urged them to make ‘Nation First’ the foundation of their conduct and actions. He called upon the youth to understand that responsible citizenship requires a balance between rights and duties and encouraged them to dedicate their energy, talent and aspirations to the service of the nation.
The Governor said that India’s national endeavour is to build a secure, prosperous, self-reliant, modern and developed nation, with the collective resolve to realise the vision of Viksit Bharat by 2047. He called upon citizens, particularly the youth, to remain committed to the unity, integrity, sovereignty and security of the country.
Concluding his address, Shri Acharya extended his heartfelt greetings and salutations to the officers and soldiers of the Indian Army, Veer Naris, ex-servicemen and all those who continue to dedicate themselves to the service of the nation.
Senior military officers, Veer Naris, ex-servicemen, NCC and NSS volunteers and other dignitaries were present at the programme.