Call to Strengthen National Unity and Integrity and Build a Developed India @2047 with the Vision of ‘Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat’
Sona Devi University, Ghatsila, celebrated National Unity Day with great patriotic fervour, a spirit of social harmony and national pride on the occasion of the 151st birth anniversary of the Iron Man of India, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel. The occasion reaffirmed the commitment towards national unity and integrity and called for realising the vision of ‘Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat’, ‘Strong India, Prosperous India’ and ‘Developed India @2047’. The programme paid tribute to Sardar Patel’s extraordinary leadership, strong determination and historic contribution to the integration of princely states into independent India.
Vice-Chancellor Highlights National Unity as India’s Greatest Strength
Addressing the gathering, the Vice-Chancellor of the University, Prof. (Dr.) Braj Mohan Pat Pingua, stated that Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel was a great nation-builder who played a decisive role in uniting the princely states of independent India through his vision, unwavering determination and exceptional leadership abilities. His life continues to inspire generations through his dedication to the nation, courage and sense of duty.
He stated that ‘Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat’ is not merely a slogan but a symbol of India’s rich cultural heritage and national integration. India’s linguistic, cultural, religious and social diversity is not its weakness but its greatest strength. He appealed to everyone to rise above discrimination and narrow-mindedness and strengthen mutual trust, brotherhood and social harmony.
Addressing the students, the Vice-Chancellor said that young people are the architects of the nation’s future. The purpose of education is not limited to obtaining degrees; it must also promote character building, morality, discipline, scientific temper and a sense of social responsibility. He encouraged students to contribute to national progress through research, innovation and skill development.
Dr. Shiv Chandra Jha Describes National Unity as the Foundation of Nation-Building
Dr. Shiv Chandra Jha, Head of the Department of Political Science, stated that Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel’s personality represents an extraordinary example of national unity, strong leadership and dedicated service to the nation. Through the integration of princely states, he laid a strong foundation for India’s national integrity. His life conveys the values of collective determination, mutual trust, sacrifice and unwavering commitment to the nation.
Dr. Jha emphasised that national unity is not merely a pledge to be expressed on a particular day but a fundamental value that must be reflected in every citizen’s thoughts, behaviour and responsibilities. Respect for constitutional ideals, commitment to democratic values, social justice and equal respect for all communities are essential to strengthening national unity.
He further stated that universities are not merely institutions imparting knowledge but centres that shape the intellectual, moral and social future of the nation. Students should contribute to resolving societal challenges through research, innovation and public welfare initiatives.
Registrar Dr. Nit Nayana Emphasises Social Harmony and Civic Responsibilities
Registrar Dr. Nit Nayana stated that national unity is the fundamental foundation of a country’s stability, progress and prosperity. India’s diverse culture teaches us to respect one another’s languages, traditions and perspectives. The true strength of a nation develops when its citizens remain conscious of their responsibilities along with their rights.
She emphasised that the purpose of education is not only to make students knowledgeable but also to develop moral values, discipline, human sensitivity and democratic awareness among them. Knowledge combined with wisdom, and rights accompanied by a sense of responsibility, form the foundation of a strong society.
Chancellor Mr. Prabhakar Singh Delivers the Message of ‘Nation First’
In his inspiring message, the University’s Chancellor, Mr. Prabhakar Singh, stated that Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel’s life symbolises unwavering dedication to the nation, courage, discipline and strong determination. Through his vision and historic leadership, he demonstrated that national unity is the greatest strength of any nation.
Mr. Singh said that ‘Nation First, Nation Above All’ should be the guiding principle in every citizen’s life. To transform India into a developed, prosperous and self-reliant nation, it is essential to promote quality education, skill development, women’s empowerment, scientific thinking, research, innovation and social harmony.
He further stated that the vision of Developed India @2047 is not the responsibility of the government or any single institution alone but a collective commitment of every citizen. The knowledge, character, hard work and dedication of today’s students towards the nation will lay the foundation for India’s bright future.
Dr. Priyanjana Banerjee Conducts the Programme and Highlights Cultural Unity
The programme was effectively conducted by Dr. Priyanjana Banerjee, Head of the Department of Bengali. She stated that India’s true identity lies in its cultural diversity and the national integration that binds this diversity together. The ideals of Sardar Patel inspire us to build a strong nation through mutual respect, tolerance, brotherhood and collective responsibility.
She emphasised that although India has numerous languages and diverse cultures, the spirit of Indianness unites everyone. Highlighting education and cultural activities as important mediums for developing national consciousness, she encouraged students to demonstrate respect and sensitivity towards other cultures.
Pledge for National Unity and Commitment to Service to the Nation
During the programme, Assistant Registrar Mrs. Archana Singh administered the National Unity Pledge to the participants. Everyone pledged to preserve the unity, integrity and security of the nation and strengthen the spirit of harmony, brotherhood and national integration among fellow citizens.
The programme also highlighted Sona Devi University’s commitment to developing national consciousness, democratic values and social harmony among students through quality education, research, innovation and social responsibility. The university aims to nurture young individuals who possess not only knowledge and skills but also strong moral values, human sensitivity and a deep sense of dedication towards the nation.
The central message of the programme was that India’s diversity is its identity, unity is its strength, and social harmony is its driving force. By embracing the ideals of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel and sincerely fulfilling our civic responsibilities, we can collectively realise the dream of a strong, prosperous, self-reliant and developed India.
Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat!
Strong India, Prosperous India!
