Prime Minister of India - Dr. Manmohan Singh

Prime Minister's message on 117th Birth Anniversary of Govind Ballabh Pant

The Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh has described Shri Govind Ballabh Pant as a leader with a progressive outlook and a man with firm commitment to secular values. Dr. Singh emphasised that we should be inspired by the ideals of Shri Govind Ballabh Pant in the task of regenerating the country and strengthening its composite culture.

In a message to Govind Ballabh Pant Memorial Society on the occasion of 117th birth anniversary of Shri Govind Ballabh Pant, the Prime Minister said:

"A remarkable personality of our history, Pandit Govind Ballabh Pant will be long remembered for his crucial role in national reconstruction. A shining example of a freedom fighter, he actively participated in the struggle for independence, suffered imprisonment and influenced countless people through his dedicated work and sacrifices. An admirable and respected public figure, he left lasting impressions as an eminent parliamentarian, able administrator and above all as a man with strength of character and conviction. A leader with a progressive outlook, he considered uplifting the tribes and backward sections of our society as part of our obligation to pay our debt to them. A man with firm commitment to secular values he fought, till the very end of his life, against those who used religion to divide people and perpetuate obscurantist practices. At a time when concerted efforts are being made to regenerate our country and further strengthen our secular foundation and composite culture let us recall the life and deeds of Shri Govind Ballabh Pant and be inspired by his ideals.

On the occasion of the 117th anniversary of Shri Govind Ballabh Pant, I have great pleasure in extending greetings and good wishes to the Govind Ballbh Pant Memorial Society for the success of the celebrations. I am confident that the Society will further rededicate itself to perpetuate Shri Pant's sacred memory."