Bilaspur (Himachal Pradesh) [India], September 1 (ANI): Himachal Pradesh Governor Kavinder Gupta on Tuesday emphasised that quality education and equal opportunities for every child are fundamental to realising the vision of a developed India, or ‘Viksit Bharat’.
According to the press release, Governor Kavinder Gupta emphasised that ensuring quality education and equal opportunities for every child is fundamental to building a strong and prosperous Viksit Bharat. He said that the true strength of the nation lies in its children and that every child, irrespective of socio-economic background or place of residence, must have the opportunity to learn, develop skills, nurture aspirations and realise his or her full potential.
He stressed that empowering the younger generation through education is not only a social responsibility but also a vital investment in the nation’s future.
The Governor was speaking after addressing the five-year journey and achievement of 650 ‘Ek Se Shreshtha’ centres, organised by Act to Transform Foundation. On the occasion, he appreciated the Foundation, teachers, coordinators, volunteers and all its associates for their sustained efforts towards providing education and essential learning support to children at the grassroots level.
The Governor said that the achievement of 650 centres is not merely a numerical milestone, but represents 650 centres of learning, opportunity and hope. He said that through these centres, education and support have reached around 12,000 children, enabling them to pursue their education with greater confidence and dignity.
Referring to the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, the Governor said that it marks a transformative step towards creating a holistic, inclusive and knowledge-driven education system. He said the policy emphasises knowledge, skills, creativity, innovation, critical thinking and character building, moving beyond the traditional focus on rote learning.
He said initiatives such as PM SHRI, NIPUN Bharat, Digital India and Skill India are further strengthening the educational ecosystem and creating new opportunities for children and youth.
The Governor also emphasised that the welfare initiatives of the Central Government under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi are bringing visible and meaningful change in the lives of ordinary citizens.
He said schemes such as Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana, Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana, Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana, Ayushman Bharat, Swachh Bharat Mission, Jal Jeevan Mission, PM-KISAN and PM SVANidhi have expanded access to essential services, healthcare, housing, clean cooking fuel, drinking water and livelihood opportunities. These initiatives, he said, are not merely providing benefits but are enhancing dignity, self-reliance and the quality of life of the common citizen.
The Governor said that the teachers associated with ‘Ek Se Shreshtha’ are not merely imparting academic knowledge but are also nurturing discipline, confidence, leadership, sensitivity and the courage to dream among children.
He noted with appreciation that the initiative has also contributed to the creation of around 692 direct employment opportunities, with nearly 90 per cent being women, and around 60 per cent of these women receiving their first employment opportunity. He said that such initiatives demonstrate how education and social empowerment can go hand in hand.
He further appreciated the support being provided to children in the form of free education, books, stationery, school bags, laptops, study tables, shoes and tracksuits. He said that while these may appear to be small interventions, they carry a much deeper message for a child that his or her education matters, dreams matter, and society believes in his or her potential.
The Governor said that the initiative has also helped reduce the educational expenditure of thousands of families. According to the available figures, more than 12,000 families have collectively saved over Rs 5.40 crore through the support provided under the initiative. However, he said that the biggest achievement cannot be measured in monetary terms.
“The real achievement is the growing confidence of a child, the reduced anxiety of a parent, the dignity of a teacher and the hope of a better future in a family,” he said.
Gupta congratulated ‘Ek Se Shreshtha’ and Act to Transform Foundation for completing five years of its service journey and reaching the milestone of 650 centres. He said the initiative demonstrates that when the resolve is clear, the intention is sincere and society comes together, small efforts can create a significant and lasting social transformation.
On the occasion, the Governor also honoured Subedar Major (Honorary Captain) Sanjay Kumar, PVC, recognising his exceptional gallantry, indomitable courage and distinguished service to the nation. He said that the valour and sacrifice of the armed forces represent the highest ideals of patriotism, duty and service to the country.
He said that the success of every child is ultimately the success of the nation and expressed confidence that empowered and educated children would play a decisive role in shaping the future of Viksit Bharat.
Earlier, Member of Parliament Anurag Thakur welcomed the Governor and detailed the ‘Ek Se Shreshtha’ initiative of the Act to Transform Foundation. (ANI)
Related reading
