Leading figures from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), including Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami, Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini, Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma, and Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, have expressed their deep sorrow following the demise of former Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh on Thursday. In their tributes, these leaders praised Singh’s extensive contributions to India’s economic reforms and his unwavering dedication to serving the nation throughout his career. Taking to X (formerly Twitter), Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath stated, "As Finance Minister and Prime Minister, he played an important role in the governance of the country." Uttarakhand’s Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami also shared his respects, posting, "His entire life was dedicated to the service of the nation while discharging various responsibilities." Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis mourned the loss of Dr. Singh, remembering him as a "great scholar, economist and statesman." Fadnavis added, "His contributions to Indian economic reforms and his decade-long service as Prime Minister will always be remembered." Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma also expressed his condolences, saying, "I received the sad news of the demise of former Prime Minister of India, Dr. Manmohan Singh ji. My condolences are with the bereaved family. May Lord Shri Ram grant the departed soul a place in his supreme abode and provide strength to the bereaved family to bear this immense loss." Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini called the passing of Dr. Singh "extremely sad," and reflected on his journey, "Your journey from a simple village in Punjab to becoming an economist and Prime Minister of India shows your dedication. You will always be remembered for your simplicity and scholarship. Your contribution to the development of the country will always be unforgettable." Dr. Manmohan Singh, who passed away at the age of 92, was admitted to AIIMS, Delhi, following a sudden loss of consciousness on December 26, 2024. Despite resuscitative efforts at home and at the hospital, he was declared dead at 9:51 PM. As per ANI reports, the hospital confirmed that he had been suffering from age-related medical conditions. Singh's passing has left the nation in mourning, with tributes pouring in from across the political spectrum, including President Droupadi Murmu, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar, and Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi. Dr. Singh, a renowned economist, served as Prime Minister of India from 2004 to 2014, leading the country through significant economic reforms. He retired from the Rajya Sabha earlier this year after serving for 33 years. His leadership was marked by key milestones, particularly in shaping India’s economic policies and strengthening international relations. Dr. Singh's tenure saw India’s economic growth soar, and he remains one of the most respected figures in Indian political history. (With inputs from ANI)
27 December,2024 08:40 AM IST | New DelhiThe last rites of former Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh will be held on Saturday, an official announcement is expected on Friday, reported news agency ANI. "The last rites of former PM Dr Manmohan Singh will be held the day after tomorrow. We will announce officially..." Congress General Secretary KC Venugopal told reporters in Delhi late Thursday night. The Congress leader described the demise of Dr. Manmohan Singh as a "painful loss" for the nation, reported ANI. "Dr Manmohan Singh was the real icon of the Congress and the country. A post-independence hero. His mission and ability to govern the country was witnessed by everyone..." he said. He further said that all the programs of the Congress have been cancelled for seven days including the Congress Foundation Day scheduled to be held on December 28, reported ANI. The body of Dr Manmohan Singh reached his residence at 3 Motilal Nehru Marg late Thursday night from AIIMS and will be placed for the public to pay their last respects. Senior Congress leaders, including Sonia Gandhi, Chairperson of the Congress Parliamentary Party, and MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, visited Dr Singh's residence. Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge and Lok Sabha Leader of the Opposition Rahul Gandhi returned to Delhi from Karnataka's Belagavi, to pay their respects. Congress leaders expressed their condolences and praised Dr Singh's pivotal role in shaping India's economy. Dr. Manmohan Singh passed away at AIIMS, Delhi, on Thursday evening at the age of 92 due to age-related health conditions. He reportedly suffered a sudden loss of consciousness at home before being rushed to AIIMS. "With profound grief, we inform the demise of former Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh, aged 92. He was being treated for age-related medical conditions and had sudden loss of consciousness at home on 26th December 2024. Resuscitative measures were started immediately at home. He was brought to the Medical Emergency at AIIMS, New Delhi at 8:06 PM. Despite all efforts, he could not be revived and was declared dead at 9:51 PM," AIIMS said in a press release. In a condolence message on X, LoP in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, said that Manmohan Singh Ji led India with immense wisdom and integrity. "His humility and deep understanding of economics inspired the nation. My heartfelt condolences to Mrs. Kaur and the family. I have lost a mentor and guide. Millions of us who admired him will remember him with the utmost pride," Rahul Gandhi wrote. Congress leader Jairam Ramesh said Manmohan Singh has left his indelible imprint on our history. "His Prime Ministership saw revolutionary legislation relating to rural employment, tribal rights, reservations for scheduled castes, scheduled tribes and OBCs, primary education, food security, and land acquisition. The Indo-US nuclear agreement was a landmark that enhanced India's global status. His Prime Ministership saw the highest GDP growth rate in the country's history," Jairam Ramesh said in his tributes on X. "Many of the initiatives he took as PM were marketed, branded, and projected as his successor's contributions. But Dr Singh never minded and would give his trademark smile," Ramesh said. Several Congress leaders, including Chief Ministers Revanth Reddy, Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, and Siddaramaiah, paid their respects. Leaders from opposition parties, including Mamata Banerjee, Pinarayi Vijayan, Bhagwant Mann, Akhilesh Yadav, Arvind Kejriwal and Hemant Soren, also expressed their sorrow. Ghulam Nabi Azad, President of the Democratic Progressive Azad Party, said, "Very sad... He can never be forgotten. I pray for peace to his soul." Congress MP and Bihar Congress President Akhilesh Prasad Singh called the demise "a personal loss." Congress leader Rajesh Thakur also consoled Dr Singh's demise, saying, "Today we have lost a respected person of the country, whose loss can never be filled... He (former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh) worked continuously for every person and also worked to strengthen the country's economy..." Congress leader and former Chhattisgarh CM Bhupesh Baghel said, "The news of the demise of former PM Manmohan Singh is unfortunate. It is an irreparable loss for the nation and the Congress Party..." Manmohan Singh, born in Punjab in 1932, served as India's Prime Minister for two consecutive terms, from 2004 to 2014. He took the oath of office for the first time in 2004, after Congress' win in the 2004 Lok Sabha election against Atal Bihari Vajpayee-led NDA. He served his second term from 2009 to 2014. He was then succeeded by PM Narendra Modi in 2014. He retired from the Rajya Sabha earlier this year, after serving for 33 years. (With inputs from ANI)
27 December,2024 08:37 AM IST | New Delhi | ANIOn Friday morning, residents of Delhi woke up to light rain across several parts of the city, accompanied by a dense layer of fog. This combination resulted in significantly reduced visibility, affecting both local commuters and tourists alike. According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the capital recorded a minimum temperature of 12 degrees Celsius and a maximum of 20 degrees Celsius on Friday. The IMD has forecasted thunderstorms accompanied by rain over the next couple of days, with more showers expected to drizzle throughout the city on both Friday and Saturday. Local resident Deepak Pandey commented on the change in weather, stating, "The weather has become good and it feels like Kashmir. It's pleasant now, and the rain has decreased the level of pollution. Even though it’s cold, it’s an ideal time for travelling." Meanwhile, a tourist from Madhya Pradesh, Raman Kushwaha, noted that although it was chilly, the light rain made it an enjoyable experience to visit the city. "It’s good to visit places in this weather. The rain has also helped reduce the pollution," he said. Visuals from Kartavya Path showed the drizzle bringing refreshing weather, though dense fog still lingered in the area, obscuring the surroundings. However, despite the pleasant weather, Delhi's air quality index (AQI) remained in the 'very poor' category, with an AQI of 371 recorded as of 7 am, according to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). The AQI readings at various locations across the city were as follows: Anand Vihar recorded 398, IGI Airport (T3) 340, Aya Nagar 360, Lodhi Road 345, ITO 380, Chandni Chowk 315, and Punjabi Bagh 386. In recent developments, the Central government's air quality monitoring panel had revoked the Stage IV ('Severe+') measures under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) for Delhi and the National Capital Region (NCR) after the AQI improved on December 24. According to ANI, these restrictions, which had been enforced to curb severe pollution, included halting industrial activities, construction, and limiting non-essential truck entry into Delhi. As per ANI, actions under Stages I, II, and III will still remain in place to prevent further deterioration in air quality. The improvement in Delhi’s air quality was attributed to favourable meteorological conditions, including increased wind speed, which were forecasted by the IMD and the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM). The Stage IV measures had been invoked when the AQI level surpassed the 400-mark on December 16, in line with the Supreme Court’s directives, aimed at tackling the severe air pollution affecting the region. With the reduced pollution levels and the upcoming rainy days, Delhi residents can expect some relief from the haze, although the city’s air quality remains a major concern.
27 December,2024 08:32 AM IST | New DelhiDr Manmohan Singh, former Prime Minister of India and a key architect of the nation’s economic transformation, passed away on December 26, 2024, at the age of 92. Known for his humility, intellect, and integrity, Singh leaves behind a legacy that continues to inspire. Born on September 26, 1932, in undivided India’s Punjab province, Singh pursued an illustrious academic journey, earning a First Class Honours degree in Economics from the University of Cambridge in 1957 and a DPhil from Oxford University’s Nuffield College in 1962. His early career in government service began in 1971, with roles ranging from Economic Advisor to Reserve Bank Governor, culminating in his tenure as India’s Finance Minister during the pivotal economic reforms of 1991. Singh went on to become India’s fourteenth Prime Minister, serving two consecutive terms from 2004 to 2014. His quiet yet steadfast leadership left an indelible mark on the nation’s political and economic landscape. Here are twelve of his most memorable quotes that encapsulate his wisdom and continue to inspire us: "I would be the last person to say there is no scope of doing more." – January 3, 2014. "I have never felt like resigning at any time. I have enjoyed doing my work. I have tried to do my work with all honesty, with all sense of integrity, without regard, or fear or favour." – January 3, 2014. "I do not believe that I have been a weak Prime Minister. That is for historians to judge. The BJP and its associates may say whatever they like. But if by 'strong Prime Minister,' you mean that you preside over a mass massacre of innocent citizens on the streets of Ahmedabad, that is the measure of strength, I do not believe that sort of strength this country needs, least of all, in its Prime Minister." – January 3, 2014. "It is for you to judge. As far as I am concerned, I feel I have done reasonably well. The growth process that we sustained in the last ten years despite the global financial crisis, despite the Euro-zone crisis, and considering also what is happening in other emerging countries like Brazil, like South Africa, like Indonesia, I don't think ours is a story which can be described as non-successful or eventful." – January 3, 2014. "Let me say at the outset that I do believe we are set for better times. The cycle of global economic growth is turning for the better." – January 3, 2014. "Well, if I can succeed in normalising relations between India and Pakistan as they should prevail between two normal states, I will consider my job well done." – 2011. "I would be the first person to admit that we could have done more. We should not be satisfied with what we have achieved. There is always room for improvement and for better outcomes. But I do believe that the record of our first year is a record of reasonable achievement." "I honestly believe that history will be kinder to me than the contemporary media, or for that matter, the Opposition parties in Parliament." "India is a hospitable environment for FDI and will continue to do so. We will continue to improve our practices wherever they are needed." – January 3, 2014. "It is often said that time is a great healer. But unfortunately, in the case of demonetisation, the scars and wounds of demonetisation are only getting more visible with time." – 2018. "More than any other period of human history, the need for unity of thought and action today is the most urgent." – 2019. "When the world is breaking up into fragments, and fragments clash with fragments, surrendering all sense and purpose of living for the larger humanity, it is the humanity which seeks transcendence from narrow limits and boundaries." – 2019. Dr Manmohan Singh’s words reflect his dedication to progress, unity, and ethical governance. His legacy will continue to inspire generations to dream bigger, act decisively, and serve with humility.
27 December,2024 08:26 AM IST | Mumbai | Anisha ShrivastavaThe Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) launched a scathing attack on the Congress on Thursday, accusing it of colluding with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) for the upcoming Delhi Assembly polls to harm the prospects of the Arvind Kejriwal-led party. Delhi Chief Minister Atishi and AAP Rajya Sabha MP Sanjay Singh alleged at a press conference here that the actions of the Congress are damaging the unity of the Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance (INDIA). “We had not said a single word against the Congress during the Haryana election. Yet the Congress seems to be reading out from the BJP’s script. Its candidates’ list looks as if it was finalised at the BJP office,” Singh said. He accused Congress leaders Ajay Maken and Sandeep Dixit of targeting the AAP, instead of focusing on the BJP. The party demanded disciplinary action against Maken and other Congress leaders within 24 hours and said if no step is taken, it will push for the grand old party’s expulsion from the INDIA bloc. “We will ask the other parties in the alliance to remove the Congress,” Singh said. CM Atishi echoed similar sentiments, claiming that the Congress is actively undermining the AAP. The Delhi Assembly polls are due in February 2025. Bodybuilders, wrestlers join AAP ahead of polls Several sportspersons, including wrestlers and bodybuilders, joined the AAP in the presence of party chief Arvind Kejriwal here on Thursday, giving a boost to the party ahead of the upcoming Delhi Assembly polls. Kejriwal welcomed Tilakraj, Rohit Dalal and Akshay Dilawari, who are associated with sports and fitness, at the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) office and handed party scarves and caps to them. Kejriwal said around 70-80 bodybuilders and wrestlers have joined the party. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever
27 December,2024 07:39 AM IST | New Delhi | AgenciesThe Congress Working Committee (CWC) meeting namely “Nav Satyagraha Baithak” began here on Thursday as the party marks the 100th anniversary of its Belgaum session that was presided over by Mahatma Gandhi and chalks out a plan for the political and electoral challenges in 2025. Top Congress leaders, including party chief Mallikarjjun Kharge, Congress Parliamentary Party (CPP) chief Sonia Gandhi, and former party chief Rahul Gandhi, marched to the venue of the extended CWC meeting here. Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, his deputy D K Shivakaumar, Congress general secretaries Jairam Ramesh and K C Venugopal, among others, attended the “historic” meeting. The Congress said it will re-dedicate itself to protect, preserve and promote Mahatma Gandhi’s legacy, which is facing a “systematic assault by the ideological brotherhood that fought him bitterly”. Sonia stated that that Mahatama Gandhi’s legacy is under threat from those in power at the Centre. She lashed out at the Modi government and the RSS and called for fighting the forces which she claimed had created a toxic atmosphere that led to Mahatma Gandhi’s assassination. In a bid to get battle-ready for the challenges ahead, the Congress will decide on an action plan for the next year at the CWC meeting. Controversy erupts over ‘incorrect’ India map A controversy erupted over the alleged misrepresentation of India’s map on the posters displayed by the Congress to commemorate the centenary of the 1924 Congress session. According to the BJP and its ally JD(S) in Karnataka, India’s map featured on the posters omits the Gilgit region of Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir as well as the Aksai Chin region, currently under the Chinese administration, which are integral parts of Jammu and Kashmir. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever
27 December,2024 07:37 AM IST | Belagavi | AgenciesThe police and the agitators on Thursday clashed in Katra in Reasi district K during a protest as demands to shelve the proposed ropeway project intensified with the town observing a 72-hour shutdown called by Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Sangarsh Samiti, with the protesters sitting on a hunger strike to press for the release of those detained by police the day before. “The bandh will continue until the government shelves the ropeway project. It is an assault on the livelihoods of most Katra residents, who are dependent on the pilgrimage economy,” a samiti spokesperson said. The Shrine Board has decided to install the ropeway to facilitate access to the temple for senior citizens, children and others who find it difficult to climb the 13-km-long track to the cave shrine. The samiti which claims to represent shopkeepers, pony operators and palanquin owners, claimed that the ropeway would destroy the livelihoods of local business owners. The proposed R250-crore ropeway project will connect Tarakote Marg to Sanji Chhat, leading to the cave shrine in Reasi district. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever
27 December,2024 07:37 AM IST | Jammu | AgenciesFormer prime minister Manmohan Singh, the architect of India’s economic reforms, died in New Delhi on Thursday night. He was 92. Singh’s death was announced by the All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Delhi, where he was admitted in the Emergency ward around 8.30 pm in critical condition. An AIIMS bulletin said “he was treated for age related medical conditions and had sudden loss of consciousness at home” on December 26. Singh was a politician, economist, and bureaucrat who served as the prime minister of India for two terms in the Congress-led UPA government from 2004 to 2014. Former prime minister Manmohan Singh. Pic/PTI “With passing of former PM Manmohan Singh, India has lost a visionary statesman, a leader of unimpeachable integritym. His enduring legacy of ushering in India’s growth, welfare and policies of inclusivity will forever be cherishedsaid,” said Congress chief Mallikarjun Kharge. “His honesty will always be an inspiration for us. He remained steadfast in commitment to serve nation despite being subjected to unfair, deeply personal attacks,” said Priyanka Gandhi. Home Minister Amit Shah took to X to express his condolences, “The news of the demise of former prime minister Dr Manmohan Singh is extremely sad...I express my condolences to his family and supporters in this hour of grief. May Waheguru grant peace to his soul and give strength to his family to bear this grief.” Paying tributes to his predecessor, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday said India mourns the loss of one of its most distinguished leaders whose wisdom and humility were always visible. “India mourns the loss of one of its most distinguished leaders, Dr Manmohan Singh Ji. Rising from humble origins, he rose to become a respected economist. He served in various government positions as well, including as Finance Minister, leaving a strong imprint on our economic policy over the years. ,” he wrote on X. Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar Singh’s death, saying he transformed India’s economic landscape. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever
27 December,2024 06:56 AM IST | New Delhi | AgenciesFormer Prime Minister Manmohan Singh passed away on Thursday night, the All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Delhi, informed PTI. Singh, 92, was brought to the emergency department in the evening in a critical condition after "sudden loss of consciousness", AIIMS said. Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge and his predecessors Sonia and Rahul Gandhi rushed to AIIMS after learning about his condition. Congress lawmaker Priyanka Gandhi Vadra also reached AIIMS on Thursday evening. Rahul Gandhi and Kharge were to attend a rally in Karnataka, which was later cancelled. Bharatiya Janta Party (BJP) President JP Nadda was also among those who reached AIIMS after learning about the former Prime Minister's death. Following news of his death, many leaders took to social media to pay their tributes to Singh. Prime Minister Narendra Modi wrote, "India mourns the loss of one of its most distinguished leaders, Dr. Manmohan Singh Ji. Rising from humble origins, he rose to become a respected economist. He served in various government positions as well, including as Finance Minister, leaving a strong imprint on our economic policy over the years. His interventions in Parliament were also insightful. As our Prime Minister, he made extensive efforts to improve people’s lives." India mourns the loss of one of its most distinguished leaders, Dr. Manmohan Singh Ji. Rising from humble origins, he rose to become a respected economist. He served in various government positions as well, including as Finance Minister, leaving a strong imprint on our economic… pic.twitter.com/clW00Yv6oP — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) December 26, 2024 Singh's most significant contribution to India was the economic changes he pushed in 1991 as Finance Minister in PV Narasimha Rao's cabinet. At the time, India was experiencing a serious economic crisis, with foreign reserves decreasing, inflation surging, and the country on the verge of defaulting on its loans. In 2004, Singh became India's Prime Minister, when he led the United Progressive Alliance (UPA) coalition administration. His tenure as Prime Minister is remembered for the stability and economic progress it brought to the nation. Under his leadership, India's GDP increased at an annual rate of approximately 7-8%, pulling millions of people out of poverty. (With PTI inputs)
26 December,2024 11:08 PM IST | Delhi | mid-day online correspondentFormer Prime Minister Manmohan Singh was admitted to All Indian Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), Delhi, on Thursday evening after his health deteriorated, sources said. Ninety-two-year-old Singh was brought to the emergency department of the hospital, they said, adding that his condition is critical, news agency PTI reported. The reason for his hospitalisation was not immediately known. More details are awaited. Singh, one of India's most renowned and prominent politicians, was born in 1932. He is largely recognised as the architect of India's economic reform and development. He was India's 13th Prime Minister and served from 2004 to 2014. During his regime, he implemented a number of economic measures that helped transform the country into one of the world's fastest-growing economies. His most significant contribution to India was the economic changes he pushed in 1991 as Finance Minister in PV Narasimha Rao's cabinet. At the time, India was experiencing a serious economic crisis, with foreign reserves decreasing, inflation surging, and the country on the verge of defaulting on its loans. In reaction to the crisis, Singh implemented a number of radical economic changes that liberalised the Indian economy. His programs aimed to dismantle the Licence Raj, reduce government control over businesses, promote foreign investment, and spur private sector growth. These reforms signalled the start of India's transition from a closed, socialist economy to an open, market-based one. Some of the key steps he took included: - De-licensing of industries: Ending the system where businesses needed government approval for most operations, fostering entrepreneurship and competition. - Trade liberalisation: India’s markets were opened to international trade and investment by lowering tariffs and encouraging exports. - Financial reforms: Strengthening the banking sector, reducing public debt, and making the economy more resilient. Manmohan Singh became India's Prime Minister in 2004, when he led the United Progressive Alliance (UPA) coalition administration. His tenure as Prime Minister is remembered for the stability and economic progress it brought to the nation. Under his leadership, India's GDP increased at an annual rate of approximately 7-8%, pulling millions of people out of poverty. (With PTI inputs)
26 December,2024 09:48 PM IST | New Delhi | PTIOn the occasion of Veer Bal Diwas, Chief Minister (CM) Devendra Fadnavis paid heartfelt floral tributes to the Sahibzades of Guru Gobind Singh Ji, the tenth Guru of the Sikhs, at his official residence in Mumbai today, as per ANI. 🌸 Offered my humble floral tributes to the Sahibzades of Guru Gobind Singh Ji, the tenth Guru of the Sikhs, on Veer Bal Diwas at my official residence in Mumbai today.🌸 शिखांचे दहावे गुरु, गुरु गोविंद सिंहजी यांच्या साहिबजाद्यांना वीर बाल दिनी, आज मुंबई येथील माझ्या शासकीय… pic.twitter.com/4Bue3Uklfz — Devendra Fadnavis (@Dev_Fadnavis) December 26, 2024 The CM's tribute marks a significant moment in commemorating the courage and sacrifice of the four sons of Guru Gobind Singh Ji, who gave their lives for their faith and principles. The floral tributes were a mark of respect for the valiant young martyrs, especially Sahibzade Baba Zorawar Singh and Baba Fateh Singh, who were martyred at a tender age. The tributes serve as a reminder of the unmatched bravery and sacrifice these young warriors displayed in the face of oppression. "We will always remember the martyrdom of Guru Gobind Singh ji's two sons: Zorawar Singh ji and Fateh Singh ji," Fadnavis said, adding, "It is our responsibility to take the story of their martyrdom to our future generations. On this Shaheed Veer Bal Diwas, I bow to these two Sahibzadas and to the revered Guru Gobind Singh ji and his entire family." Meanwhile, a special programme was organiwed at the Gurudwara in Goregaon. Legislator Surendra Shourie, Former lawmaker Maheshwar Singh, HPMC Vice President Ram Singh, State BJP Vice President Dhaneshwari Thakur, Nagar Parishad Chairman Gopal Mahant, APMC Chairman Amar Thakur, and District Mahila Morcha President Manisha Sood were present in the function. As per ANI reports, in Uttar Pradesh, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath also marked the occasion of Veer Bal Diwas by bringing a copy of Shri Guru Granth Sahib to his government residence, a gesture that further underscores the importance of the day and the reverence for the sacrifices made by the Sahibzades. CM Adityanath’s tribute highlights the significance of Guru Gobind Singh Ji's teachings and the values upheld by his sons. श्री गुरु नानक देव जी महाराज से लेकर गुरु श्री गोबिन्द सिंह जी महाराज तक, जो आदर्श सिख गुरुजन ने स्थापित किए, हम सभी के लिए प्रेरणा हैं। उस प्रेरणा से जब हम आगे बढ़ेंगे, तब 'काबुल' और 'बांग्लादेश' होने से बच पाएंगे।देश और धर्म के लिए शहादत की एक नई कहानी लिखने वाले गुरु श्री… pic.twitter.com/LAmxCUd3N2 — Yogi Adityanath (@myogiadityanath) December 26, 2024 In Uttarakhand, Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami took to social media to emphasise the immortal sacrifice of Baba Zorawar Singh Ji and Baba Fateh Singh. In a post on X, Dhami expressed, "On Veer Bal Diwas, dedicated to the immortal sacrifice of Baba Zorawar Singh Ji and Baba Fateh Singh Ji, we pay our heartfelt tribute to their bravery, indomitable courage, and unmatched sacrifice." He further remarked, "Your sacrifice for the protection of religion and the honour of the motherland is a priceless heritage of humanity. Your glorious story will continue to teach the coming generations the lessons of truth, fearlessness, and devotion to duty." बाबा जोरावर सिंह जी और बाबा फतेह सिंह जी के अमर बलिदान को समर्पित "वीर बाल दिवस" पर उनकी वीरता, अदम्य साहस और अप्रतिम त्याग को कोटिशः नमन।धर्म की रक्षा और मातृभूमि के सम्मान के लिए दिया गया आपका बलिदान मानवता की अमूल्य धरोहर है। आपकी गौरवमयी गाथा आने वाली पीढ़ियों को सच्चाई,… pic.twitter.com/bTmEZv5nCS — Pushkar Singh Dhami (@pushkardhami) December 26, 2024 Prime Minister Narendra Modi also joined in paying tribute to the Sahibzades on this significant day. In a social media post on X, PM Modi expressed, "Today, on Veer Baal Diwas, we remember the unparalleled bravery and sacrifice of the Sahibzades. At a young age, they stood firm in their faith and principles, inspiring generations with their courage. Their sacrifice is a shining example of valour and a commitment to one's values." The Prime Minister also honoured the bravery of Mata Gujri Ji and Sri Guru Gobind Singh Ji, who played pivotal roles in shaping Sikh history. Today, on Veer Baal Diwas, we remember the unparalleled bravery and sacrifice of the Sahibzades. At a young age, they stood firm in their faith and principles, inspiring generations with their courage. Their sacrifice is a shining example of valour and a commitment to one’s… — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) December 26, 2024 The Prime Minister also announced the launch of the Suposhit Gram Panchayat Abhiyan on the same day, which aims to improve nutritional outcomes and overall well-being by strengthening the implementation of nutrition-related services and ensuring active community participation. This initiative, as stated by the PMO, will be part of a nationwide effort to engage young minds, promote awareness about the significance of Veer Bal Diwas, and foster a culture of courage and dedication to the nation.
26 December,2024 08:30 PM IST | New Delhi | mid-day online correspondentADVERTISEMENT
