Jammu/Leh, Feb 20: Stressing that the ambition of a developed India by 2047 depends on the strength of its education system, the Lieutenant Governor of Ladakh, Kavinder Gupta, on Friday said that schools and colleges form the base on which a self-reliant nation will rise.
He was speaking as the Chief Guest at the 33rd Foundation Day and Grandparents Day celebration of Shiksha Niketan Higher Secondary School at Jeevan Nagar, Jammu.
Congratulating the management, teachers, students and parents, the Lieutenant Governor said the occasion was not merely an anniversary but a tribute to decades of commitment in shaping young minds. He paid homage to Late Shri Dev Datt Mengi Ji, whose vision laid the groundwork for the institution, which has grown into a reputed centre of learning and character development in Jammu.
Highlighting the national goal of transforming India into a developed country by 2047, he observed that education must go beyond securing employment. It should nurture confidence, creativity, discipline and a sense of duty among students. He underlined the need for holistic education that blends knowledge, skills, innovation and values.
Referring to deliberations at the India AI Summit, the Lieutenant Governor said he engaged with leading global and Indian technology firms including Google, Meta, Airtel and Amazon, alongside Prime Minister Narendra Modi and international CEOs. He stated that technology must be directed towards public welfare and inclusive growth.
He noted that Artificial Intelligence is reshaping multiple sectors, particularly education, where AI-driven personalised learning platforms in Indian languages are helping bridge academic gaps. According to him, technological progress, when adopted with foresight, opens new avenues rather than limiting opportunities.
Drawing a parallel with the technological shift of the 1990s, he said that while computers initially created fears of job losses, they ultimately expanded the IT industry and positioned India as a global technology hub. He urged students to adopt innovation, focus on skill development and prepare themselves to lead future transformations.
Addressing students directly, he encouraged them to pursue ambitious goals, remain disciplined, respect their parents and teachers, and dedicate their abilities to national service. He stressed that character and moral values are as vital as academic achievement in building a developed nation. He also advised students to prioritise physical and mental well-being, recommending yoga as part of their daily routine.
The Lieutenant Governor appreciated Rameshwar Mengi and the teaching fraternity for their sustained efforts and commended the students for their cultural performances during the celebration. He expressed confidence that Shiksha Niketan Higher Secondary School would continue to contribute to society through balanced education rooted in culture and modern learning.
Among those present were Bharat Bhushan, Convener Tourism Cell BJP and Vice-Chairman Jammu Cantonment Board; Rachit Khosla, Co-Convener BJP Industries Cell J&K UT; social activist Neha Nanda; and Corporator Paramjeet Singh Raina.
Principal Rita Mengi, Trustee of the institution, Director of Pushp Vatika Risheek Mengi, Director of RMPS Rakshan Mengi and Kashish Mengi, Managing Committee member, Headmaster Harish Sharma, along with in-charges of various wings of the school, also attended the event.
The programme concluded with the National Anthem.
