Chandigarh, August 1:The Governor of Punjab and Administrator, U.T. Chandigarh, Shri Gulab Chand Kataria, today addressed the Civil Services Selected Candidates Felicitation Ceremony organised by Sankalp at Punjab Lok Bhavan. The event is dedicated to nurturing merit, leadership and social commitment among talented students. Addressing the gathering, the Governor called upon the youth to pursue excellence with integrity, remain committed to education, character-building and public service, and contribute meaningfully towards nation-building. He said that every honest effort, irrespective of the profession, strengthens the nation and accelerates the journey towards Viksit Bharat 2047.

Addressing the gathering, the Governor praised Sankalp IAS for its contribution to mentoring civil services aspirants. He lauded the institution as one of the country's leading centres for producing successful IAS, IPS and other Civil Services officers, and appreciated its management, mentors, donors and students for their contribution to nation-building through quality education and mentorship.

Highlighting Chandigarh's educational achievements, Shri Kataria said the city's government schools have consistently delivered commendable academic results. He noted that Chandigarh has emerged as the No. 1 State/Union Territory in the country in the Performance Grading Index (PGI) 2.0 for School Education, becoming the only State/UT to attain the 'UTTAM-3' grade. He urged students to pursue excellence with integrity, emphasising that no work is insignificant and every honest effort contributes to national development.

The Governor also called upon youth to stay away from drugs and dedicate themselves to education, character-building and public service, stating that a drug-free and empowered youth is essential for achieving the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047. Recalling the spirit of selfless service displayed during the Punjab floods, he said serving society has always been Punjab's enduring tradition.

Member of Parliament, Rajya Sabha, Shri Avinash Rai Khanna appreciated the Governor's sustained campaign against drug abuse and said that public office is a responsibility to serve society with dedication and integrity. He also underlined the importance of Education and Social Responsibility (ESR) and encouraged support for humanitarian initiatives, including the donation of life-saving medical devices for the needy.

Additional Solicitor General of India, Shri Satya Pal Jain commended Sankalp IAS for mentoring students from the Economically Weaker Sections (EWS) for competitive examinations. Emphasising the importance of honesty and integrity in public life, he said selfless discharge of one's duties is the true measure of public service.

Chairman of Samkalp IAS, Chandigarh Shri Charanjit Rai said Sankalp started a new initiative, inspired by the Governor's vision, to identify, mentor and guide transgender youth for the Civil Services and other competitive examinations. The initiative aims to provide academic support, mentorship and career guidance while promoting inclusive education and equal opportunities.

Also present were former Speaker of the Haryana Legislative Assembly, Shri Gian Chand Gupta; Additional Chief Secretary to the Governor of Punjab, Shri Vivek Pratap Singh, IAS; Devotional Singer Shri Kanhiya Mittal; and several IAS and PCS officers associated with Sankalp IAS, Chandigarh.