Itanagar, July 6: Emphasising the lasting legacy of Dr Syama Prasad Mookerjee, Governor K T Parnaik on Sunday said that the 125th birth anniversary of the visionary leader is a moment to renew the nation’s commitment to unity, integrity, and self-reliance.
Speaking at the inaugural ceremony of the year-long celebrations here, the governor highlighted that Dr Mookerjee’s contributions go beyond politics, they represent a powerful blend of conviction, patriotism, and transformative leadership that continue to inspire generations.
Parnaik paid tribute to Dr Mookerjee, calling his life a shining example of dedication to India's cultural pride, democratic values, and national unity.
“This occasion is not just a remembrance. It is a powerful call to action, especially for the youth, to take inspiration from Dr Mookerjee’s courage, conviction, and selfless service,” he said.
Urging the youth of the state to be the flag bearers of his vision, the governor stated that their strength lies in their creativity, ambition, and deep-rooted cultural heritage. He encouraged them to take pride in their identity while striving for excellence in science, sports, technology, and innovation.
“When young people are empowered to lead with integrity and compassion, they become agents of positive change,” Parnaik said, calling for the nurturing of youth leadership across communities.
He also stressed the need for revitalising local institutions through transparency and honesty, making them pillars of good governance and inclusive development.
The governor recalled Dr Mookerjee’s powerful slogan “One Country, One Head, One Flag, One Constitution” and his strong opposition to Article 370.
He said that the dream of national integration envisioned by Dr Mookerjee was fulfilled under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah through the abrogation of Article 370 and the complete integration of Jammu and Kashmir into the Indian Union.
Highlighting Dr Mookerjee’s multifaceted legacy, Parnaik described him as a courageous nation-builder, a visionary educationist, and an architect of modern industrial India.
He noted that as minister for Industries and Supply, Dr Mookerjee played a pivotal role in setting up major establishments such as the Chittaranjan Locomotive Factory, Sindri Fertilizer Corporation, and Hindustan Aircraft Factory.
The governor also recalled Mookerjee’s opposition to the partition of Bengal, driven by his belief in a culturally unified India.
In the Constituent Assembly, Dr Mookerjee strongly advocated for the rights of minorities and the preservation of regional languages, striving for a constitution that would be inclusive and just for all communities.
Parnaik appealed to the people of the state to take immense pride in their unique languages, customs, and heritage, calling these the roots of the state’s and nation’s strength. He envisioned a collective march toward a developed India by 2047, driven by empowered youth and strong local governance.
The event, organised by the state Art and Culture department under the aegis of the union culture ministry, witnessed participation from all walks of life, especially students.
Law, Justice, Sports & Youth Affairs minister Kento Jini, Chief Secretary Manish Gupta, and Art & Culture secretary Mamta Riba shared their reflections on the significance of Dr Mookerjee’s legacy.
