Governorship – Kavinder Gupta Sworn In As Himachal Pradesh Governor
Governorship – Former Ladakh Lieutenant Governor Kavinder Gupta formally assumed office as the Governor of Himachal Pradesh on Tuesday during a dignified ceremony held at Lok Bhavan. The oath of office and secrecy was administered by Chief Justice of the Himachal Pradesh High Court Justice Gurmeet Singh Sandhawalia. The event was attended by several senior political leaders, officials and dignitaries, marking a significant moment in the state’s constitutional administration.
Ceremony Held With Traditional Protocol and Dignity
The oath-taking ceremony followed established state protocol and was conducted in a calm yet ceremonial atmosphere. Haryana Governor Ashim Kumar Ghosh and his wife Mitra Ghosh were present at the event, along with Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu and Lady Governor Bindu Gupta.
Gupta took the oath in Hindi. For the first time at Lok Bhavan, the ceremony began with the singing of Vande Mataram before the proceedings commenced. The National Anthem followed the opening song, and Vande Mataram was again performed after the ceremony concluded, adding a distinct ceremonial character to the occasion.
The newly sworn-in Governor was later accorded a Guard of Honour in recognition of his new constitutional role.
Formalities Completed Before Oath
Prior to the oath-taking, Himachal Pradesh Chief Secretary Sanjay Gupta read the official warrant of appointment issued by the President of India. This document formally confirmed Kavinder Gupta’s appointment as the Governor of the state.
Following the reading of the appointment order, Secretary to the Governor C.P. Verma facilitated the signing of the charge certificate by the new Governor, completing the official formalities associated with assuming office.
Leaders and Officials Attend the Event
The ceremony witnessed the presence of several prominent leaders from the state’s political and administrative system. Deputy Chief Minister Mukesh Agnihotri, Speaker of the Himachal Pradesh Vidhan Sabha Kuldeep Singh Pathania and Leader of Opposition Jai Ram Thakur attended the event.
Senior members of the state cabinet were also present, including Health and Family Welfare Minister Dr. Dhani Ram Shandil, Industries Minister Harshwardhan Chauhan, Education Minister Rohit Thakur and Ayush Minister Yadvinder Goma. Political Advisor to the Chief Minister Sunil Sharma also attended the ceremony.
In addition, MLAs, heads of various state commissions and boards, Vice-Chancellors of universities, Director General of Police Ashok Tiwari, senior civil and police officials, and other distinguished personalities participated in the event.
Governor Performed Traditional Prayer Before Ceremony
Earlier in the day, Kavinder Gupta performed a traditional prayer ceremony with members of his family before heading to Lok Bhavan for the swearing-in event. The gesture reflected a personal moment of reflection before assuming the constitutional responsibility of the office.
Commitment to Constitutional Responsibilities
Speaking to media representatives after taking oath, Governor Gupta expressed gratitude to the President of India for entrusting him with the responsibility of serving as the constitutional head of the state.
He said that the office of Governor carries a responsibility that rises above political affiliation. According to him, the position is meant to serve the interests of the state and its people while functioning strictly within the framework of the Constitution.
Gupta also stated that he would maintain close coordination with the state government in order to ensure smooth governance and effective implementation of development initiatives.
Focus Areas for Development and Governance
The Governor highlighted several key areas that he intends to focus on during his tenure. He said that education remains one of the strengths of Himachal Pradesh and that improving the quality of education would be an important priority.
He also noted that the geographic conditions of Himachal Pradesh are similar to those of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh. Recalling his tenure in Ladakh, he mentioned that he travelled more than 10,000 kilometres within seven months, gaining firsthand understanding of the challenges faced by mountainous regions.
Environmental protection and increasing green cover in the state were also identified as major priorities. He emphasized preserving Himachal Pradesh’s cultural heritage while strengthening tourism, including religious tourism, as an important economic activity.
Emphasis on Youth, Tribal Development and Social Welfare
Governor Gupta further stated that initiatives related to skill development, quality education and the effective implementation of the National Education Policy would be encouraged by combining modern learning methods with Indian values.
He also highlighted the need to strengthen tribal welfare programmes, promote natural farming and support youth development initiatives.
Efforts to combat drug abuse in the state will continue through education, awareness and counselling programmes, he said. According to him, sports initiatives such as Khelo India can also play an important role in engaging young people in positive activities.
Border Area Development and Health Initiatives
The Governor also underlined the importance of developing border areas adjoining China. He said that programmes like the Vibrant Village Programme would be supported to improve infrastructure, connectivity and livelihood opportunities in remote regions.
In addition, he stressed the need to continue efforts aimed at eliminating tuberculosis from the state through effective health initiatives.
Expressing optimism about the future, Gupta said that cooperation between the state government, opposition parties, social organisations and citizens would help ensure inclusive and sustainable development for Himachal Pradesh.