Bandaru Dattatreya pays tribute to former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee

Shimla : Governor Bandaru Dattatraya said that former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee had an amazing ability to take forward all ideologies in the interest of the country and that is good for strong democracy.The Governor was presiding over the function on ‘Sushasan Diwas’ to mark the occasion of former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee organized by HP University, Shimla, today.He said that Atal ji was always committed to liberal thinking and democratic ideals. His behaviour and effective working style were sources of inspiration for public servants. He said that his popularity was above the boundaries of party and politics. Due to his personality, behaviour and power of thought, even political opponents had a feeling of affection and respect towards him. He said that he had left an indelible mark of his remarkable personality and invaluable contribution while performing many responsibilities during his extraordinary public life. He added that in each role he provided excellent and unforgettable examples. “Everyone knows that at the time of the arrival of the 21st century, as Prime Minister, Atal ji established India as a new power in front of the world community”, said Dattatraya.The Governor said that Atal Ji was in favour of good governance based on morality, sensitivity and transparency and set up an example of good governance and that is why 25 December, his birth anniversary is celebrated throughout the country as ‘Sushasan Diwas’. He said that it was a very big day in itself and in fact, the purpose of this day was to commit the administration to its task and to lead towards development. “We hope that this Sushasan Diwas would prove meaningful for our country and the people”, said the Governor.Shri Dattatraya remembered the golden memories he had with Atal Ji and said “I got a chance to work closely with him. I was the Urban Development Minister in his government. He believed that construction of four-lane highways and strengthening of rail, air and waterways should be given due priority as these shall boost Indian economy and fast track the development of our country.” He gave pace to the economic reforms initiated by former Prime Minister Narasimha Rao. Today, there is a need to build a new India by fulfilling the dreams of Atal ji and to make the new generation aware of his ideas.The Governor also witnessed PM-Kisan Samman Nidhi Programme of Prime Minister Narender Modi in the committee room of the university.Vice-Chancellor Prof Sikander Kumar welcomed and honoured the Governor on the occasion and said that good governance means complete participation of the people in government schemes. He said that Atal ji used to live in the hearts of all. We should also work selflessly in the development of the University and this was good governance in real sense, which was taught by former Prime Minister Atal Bhihari Vajpayee, said the VC. Earlier Governor pays rich tributes to the former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee at historic Ridge Shimla. He said that Atal Ji was the best politician, statesman and the tallest leader of Indian politics who always remained upright for the cause of the nation. He was not only one of the galaxy’s leaders of Indian politics but also a great poet with a kind heart due to which he won the hearts of the people of the country. He said that his various valuable contributions to the nation would always be remembered by the people.Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur, Urban Development Minister Suresh Bhardwaj, Education Minister Govind Singh Thakur, Mayor, MC Shimla Satya Kaundal, BJP State President Suresh Kashyap, MLAs and other prominent people were also present on the occasion. Later, the Governor also visited Church at The Ridge Shimla and attended prayer meetings. He extended greetings to the people of the State especially Christian brethren. He also distributed chocolates amongst the children on the occasion.He said that this festival spreads the message of love and affection and inspires us to help the needy. He said that Christmas was a reminder of the profound message of Lord Jesus Christ of spreading universal brotherhood. He said this festival inspires us on the path of mutual understanding and to live in harmony.Earlier, the Governor also paid floral tribute to former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee in his portrait at Raj Bhavan. Officials of the Raj Bhavan were also present on the occasion.