Itanagar/Shillong, March 30 (NationPress) Arunachal Pradesh's Governor, Lt Gen K.T. Parnaik (Retd), expressed on Monday that Prime Minister Modi's initiative, ‘Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat’, has significantly enhanced cultural, traditional, and regional ties throughout the nation.

While addressing the Rajasthan Diwas celebrations at Lok Bhavan in Itanagar, the Governor underscored the strengths of Rajasthan in areas like tourism, entrepreneurship, and its admirable social values. He urged the community to actively contribute to Arunachal Pradesh’s progress, especially by boosting tourism and facilitating socio-economic growth.

Furthermore, he called on citizens to engage in waste management efforts and collaborate to tackle social issues, including drug abuse and health challenges like tuberculosis. He stressed that collective responsibility is crucial for realizing the vision of a Viksit Bharat.

Lt Gen Parnaik noted his pleasure in observing that the youth, particularly students, are increasingly recognizing and valuing the rich cultural diversity found across different states.

First Lady Anagha Parnaik, along with members of the Rajasthani community in Arunachal Pradesh, took part in the celebrations. The Governor praised the community for its essential contributions to the state’s advancement and commended its spirit of valor, patriotism, and dedication to safeguarding cultural heritage.

Special guests included students from the Donyi Polo Mission School for Hearing and Visually Impaired in Chimpu, who delivered a captivating patriotic dance performance.

The event showcased vibrant cultural displays, highlighting Rajasthan’s artistic legacy, featuring ‘Rajasthan Ro Bakhan’, ‘Kesaria Banda Gher Ghoomar’, and traditional folk dances such as ‘Ghoomar’, ‘Chari’, and ‘Kathputli’. Members of the Rajasthani community, including senior bureaucrats and entrepreneurs, participated with enthusiasm.

The Governor, associated with the Rajputana Rifles regiment of the Indian Army, hosted a high tea, engaging with the guests. In a display of cultural exchange, traditional delicacies like ‘Lapshi’ and ‘Moti Pak’ were served.

Meanwhile, in Meghalaya, Lok Bhavan in Shillong marked the Foundation Day of Bihar, Rajasthan, and Odisha with a special event at the Durbar Hall. The gathering included government officials, students, esteemed citizens, and invited guests.

The celebrations featured cultural performances, including traditional dances from the three states. Meghalaya Governor C.H. Vijayashankar extended greetings to the people of Bihar, Rajasthan, and Odisha, emphasizing their rich historical, cultural, and religious legacies.

He commended the artists for their commitment, noting that their performances represented not only personal dedication but also the cultural identity of their respective states.