Governor Stresses Blending Modern Knowledge with Cultural Heritage Preservation

Dalhousie, Oct 23: Himachal Pradesh Governor Kavinder Gupta has emphasised the need to preserve India’s rich cultural heritage and traditional values while embracing modern knowledge, science and technology to prepare young people for future challenges.

Addressing the annual function at Dalhousie Hilltop School, the Governor said heritage encompasses not only knowledge passed down through generations but also the changes brought about by the ideas and actions of the present generation.

Highlighting the importance of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, he said it provides a strong framework for transforming the education system by promoting innovation, skill development, critical thinking, creativity and the holistic development of students.

Gupta said young people would play a crucial role in realising Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of a developed India by 2047. He stressed that the country’s youth must be knowledgeable, innovative, self-reliant, disciplined and committed to national development.

Referring to emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence, robotics, STEM education and digital learning platforms, he said these were creating new opportunities for students, including those living in remote and difficult geographical areas of Himachal Pradesh. However, he emphasised that technological knowledge must be complemented by wisdom, ethics and human values.

The Governor congratulated the school management, teachers, students and parents on achieving a 100 per cent pass rate in the CBSE Class X board examinations. He also congratulated Akshat Kumar, a Jammu and Kashmir resident, for securing 98.8 per cent marks in Class XII and topping Chamba district. Akshat Kumar and Ali Akbar, a resident of Ladakh, were honoured for their outstanding academic performance.

Gupta acknowledged the contribution of school founder I.M. Dhawan and appreciated the efforts of Managing Director Dr. Sudhir Dhawan and Chairperson Dr. Poonam Rai Dhawan in nurturing young talent. Dr. Poonam Rai Dhawan presented the annual report, highlighting the institution’s history and academic and co-curricular achievements. Students also presented colourful cultural performances.

Urging students to dream big and pursue their goals with dedication and hard work, the Governor said success should be measured not merely by marks or positions but also by character, conduct and contributions to society.

He called upon students to become responsible guardians of the Himalayan environment by conserving water, forests and land and adopting sustainable lifestyles. He also encouraged them to remain connected to Indian culture and values while acquiring modern skills and knowledge to contribute meaningfully to India’s development by 2047.