Srinagar: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Friday said Mahatma Gandhi’s ideals of truth, non-violence and social responsibility remain deeply relevant in today’s technology-driven world and urged the youth to use technology responsibly while remaining anchored in human values and ethical conduct.
Speaking at a Gandhi Jayanti celebration organised by the School Education Department in collaboration with the Department of Culture, Sinha said October 2 provides an opportunity to reflect on the life and philosophy of Mahatma Gandhi, whose legacy continues to inspire generations.
He said Gandhi had given India a new way of thinking, standing against injustice and living with dignity, adding that his principles continue to offer guidance in addressing contemporary social and global challenges.
The Lieutenant Governor cautioned against the growing challenge of misinformation and stressed the need for citizens, particularly young people, to verify facts and engage in dialogue before reacting.
Referring to Gandhi’s lifelong commitment to truth, Sinha said the principle of “Satyameva Jayate”—truth alone triumphs—must continue to guide democratic institutions and public discourse.
“Bapu understood the relationship between truth and power very deeply,” he said, describing truth as both a personal discipline and a habit of verifying information before accepting it.
Highlighting the role of technology in modern society, Sinha said technological advancements have connected people across the world but have also raised concerns about truth, inclusion and responsible use.
He said technology should remain an instrument for progress rather than a substitute for human conscience and judgment.
“I want all children and youth to remember that technology is only an instrument and the decision must remain ours,” he said, urging them to use modern tools responsibly while remaining rooted in human values.
The Lieutenant Governor also emphasised India’s diversity, saying the country’s strength lies in its ability to accommodate different languages, cultures, traditions and beliefs while remaining united.
He said unity must be strengthened through justice, respect and compassion and recalled Gandhi’s emphasis on uplifting the weakest sections of society.
Sinha expressed confidence that Gandhi’s philosophy would continue to guide India towards the goal of becoming a developed nation by 2047. Referring to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of a “Viksit Bharat”, he said development must be measured not only through infrastructure and economic growth but also through inclusivity, access to opportunities and social welfare.
He also highlighted Gandhi’s advocacy of self-reliance and village-based economies, saying initiatives such as Atmanirbhar Bharat seek to strengthen local products, artisans, small enterprises and farmers.
Calling for greater emphasis on character-building, Sinha said a nation’s character is its most enduring infrastructure and urged citizens to reflect on their own contribution to nation-building.
“We often ask what others are doing. Today, on Bapu’s birth anniversary, let us also ask what we are doing to build a developed India,” he said.
The Lieutenant Governor urged the youth to use the unprecedented power of technology with discipline and responsibility and work towards building an India that is modern yet compassionate, prosperous yet just, and powerful yet sensitive.
Earlier, Sinha extended Gandhi Jayanti greetings to the people of Jammu and Kashmir and congratulated students who excelled in a district-level symposium on truth and non-violence. He also appreciated cultural performances presented during the event, including musical renditions and a skit based on Gandhian themes.
Health and Education Minister Sakeena Masood Itoo, Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo, Padma Bhushan awardee Rajeev Sethi, Gandhi Global Family president Dr S.P. Varma, Commissioner Secretary School Education Department Ram Niwas Sharma, senior officials, educators and students attended the programme.
