Kolkata, Jan 12 (NationPress) - On the momentous occasion of Swami Vivekananda's 163rd birth anniversary on Monday, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee urged the populace to advance along the path of “unity, peace, and harmony”.

“Swami Vivekananda serves as our guiding light for patriotism and social service. His principles of love for the nation, the mission to aid the less fortunate, and the call for unity, peace, and harmony have perpetually motivated me. The harmonious coexistence of all religions that Swamiji advocated remains our foundation. Inspired by his teachings, I pray that all individuals in Bengal -- irrespective of religion or caste -- cherish and respect one another,” the Chief Minister expressed in a statement shared through her social media.

In her online message, she elaborated on the initiatives undertaken by her administration to keep Swamiji's teachings and legacy alive in the hearts of Bengal's residents.

“To honor Swami Vivekananda, our government has implemented numerous initiatives. The ancestral home of Vivekananda and the residences in Bagbazar and Darjeeling linked to Sister Nivedita have been acquired and entrusted to the Ramakrishna Mission and Ramakrishna Sarada Mission, respectively, now serving as significant heritage sites. Additionally, renovations at the maternal home in Bagbazar have been completed,” she noted in her social media update.

She also mentioned that efforts have been made to improve the infrastructure surrounding the birthplace of Shri Ramakrishna Paramhansa at Kamarpukur, with ongoing work for the development of the Ramakrishna Mission and surrounding areas.

“Furthermore, a center for education and culture named 'Vivek Tirtha' is being established in New Town, inspired by the philosophies of Swami Vivekananda. The land has been allocated for this venture, and the Ramakrishna Mission is constructing it, with our government covering a substantial part of the expenses,” the Chief Minister added, emphasizing that regular financial support is given to various educational institutions named after Shri Ramakrishna, Ma Sarada, and the Swami Vivekananda missions.

She also conveyed her best wishes for National Youth Day, celebrated on Swami Vivekananda's birth anniversary.

“I extend my heartfelt greetings to the dedicated youth of our nation. Swamiji believed that the youth are the architects of a country’s future. Our government is devoted to empowering them through education, skills, and opportunities to usher in a new era of advancement. Let us commit to ‘Arise, Awake, and Stop not until the goal is reached’.