Itanagar, Apr 14: Education Minister Passang Dorjee Sona on Monday paid rich tributes to Bharat Ratna Dr Bhim Rao Ambedkar, hailing him as not just the chief architect of the Indian Constitution but also a visionary leader and tireless social reformer who championed justice, equality, and upliftment of the marginalised.
Speaking at the 134th birth anniversary celebration of Dr Ambedkar, organised by the BJP’s state unit at the party headquarters here, Sona underlined that Ambedkar’s values remain profoundly relevant in modern India, guiding the nation toward inclusive development and social harmony.
The minister stressed that Dr Ambedkar regarded education as the key to societal transformation, believing that only through education could true social reform be achieved.
Drawing parallels between global icons, he likened Ambedkar to Abraham Lincoln, noting that both leaders stood firmly for equality and justice in their respective countries.
Sona also highlighted the BJP government’s efforts to honor Ambedkar’s legacy by observing Constitution Day and posthumously conferring upon him the Bharat Ratna. He reminded the audience that Dr Ambedkar was the first to draft a bill for the Uniform Civil Code, demonstrating his forward-thinking vision for a unified legal framework in India.
While citizens are increasingly aware of their constitutional rights, Sona cautioned that fundamental duties are often overlooked. He urged everyone to uphold both rights and responsibilities as enshrined in the Constitution, to ensure a just and balanced society.
On the state’s education scenario, the minister noted a significant improvement in CBSE results, reflecting the government's commitment to improving educational standards. He thanked Chief Minister Pema Khandu for his relentless efforts to transform the education sector in Arunachal Pradesh.
To streamline operations, Sona announced that transfers and postings of teachers will now take place only once a year, based on a well-planned system.
Emphasising that the primary duty of teachers is to teach and mentor students with dedication, he called for full cooperation from all stakeholders to help build a better future for students.
BJP state unit president Kaling Moyong, in his address, elaborated on the Dr Bhimrao Ambedkar Samman Abhiyan, which will run from April 14 to 25, 2025, across all 28 districts, 78 mandals, and at the booth level. The campaign includes a series of outreach programs aimed at spreading awareness about Ambedkar’s ideals.
Moyong said senior BJP leaders will serve as resource persons to train and empower grassroots workers, and commended the dedication of BJP karyakartas working under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chief Minister Pema Khandu.
Reflecting on India’s political history, Moyong sharply criticised the Congress regime’s misuse of Article 356, pointing out that it was used 88 times to dismiss democratically elected governments.
He cited 1980, when President’s Rule was imposed in seven states simultaneously, as an example of constitutional manipulation for political ends.
Former ministers Taba Tedir and Tage Taki also spoke on the occasion, sharing their thoughts on Dr Ambedkar’s lasting influence.
