Raphael Warjri

Shillong, October 31, 2023: In line with the Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat programme of the Government of India, which aims to enhance interaction & promote mutual understanding between people of different states/UTs, the Foundation Day of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh was today celebrated at Raj Bhavan Shillong.

To mark the occasion a cultural evening was organized wherein the Hon’ble Governor of Meghalaya, Shri Phagu Chauhan graced the occasion as the Chief Guest.

The Foundation Day celebration also coincided with the Rashtriya Ekta Diwas or National Unity Day which marks the birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel.

On the occasion, the Hon’ble Governor administered the National Unity Day pledge to foster and fortify.

The cultural evening witnessed a splendid array of performances showcasing the rich cultural tapestry of the two Union Territories. A special troupe of performers from Ladakh wowed the audience with their impeccable musical prowess.

The Foundation Day message of Lt. Governor of Ladakh, Brig. (Dr) B D Mishra (Retd.) was also screened on the day.

Earlier in his welcome address, Dr. B D R Tiwari, IAS, Commissioner and Secretary to the Governor of Meghalaya, recounted the valuable contributions of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel in promoting national integration which earned him the title of the ““Iron Man of India”. Further, he also hailed the scenic beauty of the two Union Territories and appreciated their deep rooted customs and traditions.

The programme was organized by Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) Shillong in collaboration with the Department of Arts and Culture, Government of Meghalaya.