Imphal, Oct. 2: By observing the National Cleanliness Day 2016, Government of Manipur paid homage to Mahatma Gandhi on his 167 birth anniversary today at GM Hall Imphal.
As an important part of the observation, Hon’ble Governor of Manipur Dr. Najma A Heptulla and Chief Minister Shri O. Ibobi Singh led the floral tribute to the statue of Mahatma Gandhi at GM hall.
While giving the Chief Guest’s speech, Hon’ble Governor appealed for clean home, roads, public places and environment and also for keeping ourselves clean. She recalled that Mahatma Gandhi gave so much emphasis to cleanliness. He believed that spiritual cleanliness (cleaning of mind and soul) approaches to God.
Gandhiji led the nation in freedom struggle against the yoke of British. He used non-violence as a means of the struggle. He belongs to the world and to all generation. He is an apostle of truth. He lived and died for peace and welfare of mankind. He won affection and love from all over the world. He became Mahatma, the great soul. He taught the world brotherhood, friendship. Not only Mahatma Gandhi fought for political Independence of the nation but also for economic independence too, the Governor added.
In his presidential address, Chief Minister Shri O. Ibobi Singh said that every year October 2, the birth day of Mahatma Gandhi, the Father of the Nation is observing as National Cleanliness Day. As a mark of respect to Gandhiji who had used non-violence as only weapon in bringing India’s Independence from British rule, we are organizing the observation.
Gandhiji taught the value of harmonious co-existence and mutual respect and his ideals of non-violence, freedom, equality and religious tolerance have eternal value. We need to keep alive in our hearts and minds at all times the principles of tolerance and non-violence. In today’s chaotic world, Gandhiji’s message for living harmoniously among us has become very much relevant. To him ’love’ is everything.
On the other hand, cleanliness is one of the spiritual exercises performed by the Mahatma. For a healthy and wealthy society, we required a clean environment. It produces clean and new ideas. Life of cleaned soul and minds are best life. Whatever service they rendered give benefits to the people and society, Shri Ibobi stated.
The observation was attended by the MPs of Inner and outer Manipur, Deputy Speaker, Council of Ministers, MLAs, Chief Secretary, DGP, high ranking officials both from civil and police.
It may be recalled that Mahatma Gandhi was born on 2nd October, 1869 at Por bandar.
