Chandigarh, May 21: In a ceremony held at the Guru Nanak Auditorium, Punjab Raj Bhavan, the Punjab Governor and UT Chandigarh Administrator, Shri Gulab Chand Kataria, felicitated 16 meritorious students—children of Group ‘B’, ‘C’, and ‘D’ employees of Raj Bhavan—for their exemplary performance in the Class 10 and 12 board examinations of the 2023–24 session.

Apart from this, the Governor also felicitated aspiring NEET/JEE students, students enrolled in professional courses (post-Class 12), and postgraduates preparing for competitive exams with award money.

Speaking on the occasion, the Governor lauded the students for their hard work and perseverance, and expressed deep appreciation for the dedication and sacrifices of their families. He remarked that the Raj Bhavan is like a family to him—encompassing every employee, from Class IV staff to Class I officers. As the head of this family, he said, it is his duty to ensure that all members receive the support they need, especially in empowering their children to pursue excellence in education and beyond.

He emphasized that this initiative marks the beginning of a continuing tradition to support educational aspirations and nurture future leaders. “Education is not a burden, but a great opportunity. Dream big, work hard, and contribute to the making of a prosperous and self-reliant India,” the Governor encouraged the students.

He further announced that this event will be made an annual feature to motivate the students of Raj Bhavan employees in the fields of education and sports.

The Governor awarded recognition certificates and financial incentives amounting to Rs. 7,95,850, distributed across five categories. This initiative, supported through the Hon’ble Governor’s Discretionary Grant for FY 2024–25, aims to motivate academic excellence and alleviate financial barriers in students’ educational journeys.

Award Highlights:

Class 10 students scoring above 70%: Rs. 11,000 each (7 students)

Class 12 students scoring above 70%: Rs. 21,000 each (9 students)

NEET/JEE aspirants: 30% of coaching fees reimbursed (3 students; total Rs. 69,500)

· Professional courses (post-Class 12): 30% of annual fees (14 students; total Rs. 4,54,950)

·Postgraduates preparing for competitive exams: Rs. 5,400 support provided

List of Meritorious Students Honoured Today Included: Class 10 (Above 70%): Prabhjot Singh, Roohdeep Kaur, Anmol Singh, Ishant Jaswal, Tannu Yadav, Akansha, Tripti Yadav

Class 12 (Above 70%): Tania, Bharti Mehra, Mayank, Arya Singh, Harsh Gupta, Sanjana, Mandeep Sahu, Isha, Khushboo