‘Rashtra Pratham’ must guide every citizen’s commitment to nation: Governor
By Dalim Phukan
Guwahati, Octr 9 : Assam Governor Shri Lakshman Prasad Acharya on Thursday 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.
Describing ‘Rashtra Pratham’ as a guiding principle of responsible citizenship, the Governor called upon citizens to place national interest above personal considerations and contribute to the country’s progress through honesty, discipline, dedication and a strong sense of duty.
Addressing the gathering, Shri Acharya said that true love for the nation was reflected not merely through words but through sincere commitment to one’s duties and responsibilities. He urged citizens to serve the country with sincerity, respect fellow citizens and work towards building a stronger, united and self-reliant India.
Paying rich tributes to the courage and dedication of the Indian Armed Forces, the Governor said that ‘Nation First’ should remain the guiding principle of every citizen. He paid homage to the martyrs who made the supreme sacrifice in the service of the nation and expressed respect for the Veer Naris and families of fallen soldiers.
The Governor acknowledged the contribution of the Armed Forces in maintaining peace and stability in the Northeast, saying that their service had helped create a secure environment for development, connectivity, education and employment in the region.
Highlighting the vision of ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ and ‘Aatmanirbhar Defence Capability’, Shri Acharya said India was steadily moving from being primarily a buyer of defence equipment to becoming a country capable of designing, manufacturing and exporting advanced defence systems. He also highlighted the contribution of scientists, engineers, defence industries, start-ups and youth in taking the country from ‘Make in India’ to ‘Make for the World’.
The Governor also highlighted the increasing participation of women in the Armed Forces. He said India’s daughters were taking up challenging assignments and leadership responsibilities, reflecting the strength of Nari Shakti in nation-building and national service.
Addressing NCC and NSS cadets present at the programme, Shri Acharya urged them to make ‘Nation First’ the foundation of their conduct and actions. He stressed the importance of balancing rights with duties and encouraged the youth to dedicate their energy, talent and aspirations to the service of the nation.
The Governor said India’s national endeavour was to build a secure, prosperous, self-reliant, modern and developed nation and 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.
Senior military officers, Veer Naris, ex-servicemen, NCC and NSS volunteers and other dignitaries were present at the programme.
