DALHOUSIE: Himachal Pradesh Governor Kavinder Gupta on Friday emphasised the need to preserve India’s rich cultural heritage and traditional values while embracing modern knowledge, science and technology to prepare the younger generation for future challenges.
Addressing the annual function ‘Virasat-2026’ at Dalhousie Hilltop School, the Governor said heritage was not merely what previous generations had passed down, but also what the present generation would leave behind through its thoughts, conduct and actions.
He stressed that education must extend beyond academic achievements to develop critical thinking, creativity, practical knowledge, problem-solving abilities and a strong sense of social responsibility.
Referring to the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, Gupta said it provided a framework for transforming the education system by promoting innovation, skill development and the holistic growth of students.
Highlighting the vision of Viksit Bharat@2047, he said India’s aspiration to become a developed nation by 2047 could be realised when young people were knowledgeable, innovative, self-reliant, disciplined and committed to the nation.
The Governor also underscored the growing importance of Artificial Intelligence, robotics, STEM education and digital learning platforms, observing that these technologies were opening new opportunities for students, including those living in geographically challenging regions such as Himachal Pradesh. However, he cautioned that technological advancement must be accompanied by wisdom, ethical conduct and human values.
Congratulating the school management, teachers, students and parents on achieving a 100 per cent pass rate in the CBSE Class X examinations, Gupta appreciated their collective efforts.
He also lauded Akshit Kumar, a resident of Jammu and Kashmir, for securing 98.8 per cent marks in Class XII and topping Chamba district. The Governor felicitated Akshit Kumar and Ali Akbar, a resident of Ladakh, in recognition of their outstanding academic performances.
Gupta recalled the contribution of the school’s founder, I.M. Dhawan, and appreciated Managing Director Dr. Sudhir Dhawan and Chairperson Dr. Poonam Rai Dhawan for their efforts to advance education and nurture young talent.
During the function, the school management felicitated the Governor with a traditional shawl, cap and memento. Dr. Poonam Rai Dhawan presented the annual report, highlighting the institution’s history and its academic and co-curricular activities. Students added colour to the celebrations with cultural performances showcasing their talent and creativity.
Calling upon students to dream big and work with dedication, the Governor said success should not be measured solely by marks or positions, but also by character, conduct and contribution to society.
He urged students to become responsible custodians of the Himalayan environment by protecting water resources, forests and land and adopting sustainable lifestyles. He also encouraged them to remain rooted in Indian culture and values while acquiring modern skills and knowledge to contribute to the country’s development.
Former minister Asha Kumari, senior officers of the Indian Army and Indian Air Force, Sub-Divisional Magistrate Anil Bhardwaj, Deputy Superintendent of Police Mayank Sharma, Ranjan Sharma, former Chief Medical Officer Dr. Vipin Thakur, Dalhousie Public School President Dr. Captain G.S. Dhillon, parents and other prominent citizens were present on the occasion.
The Governor congratulated the school management, teachers, students and parents on the successful organisation of the annual function and wished the students a bright and fulfilling future.
