Governor Shiv Pratap Shukla presided over the programme today at Raj Bhavan jointly organised by the Nehru Yuva Kendra and Indo Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) under the 'Meri Maati Mera Desh' campaign.

While addressing the volunteers of Nehru Yuva Kendra and ITBP Jawans, the Governor said that the importance of the mother land and birthplace is greater than heaven. India is the land of warriors where every area has produced great freedom fighters and army personnel, who have sacrificed their lives for the sake of the nation.

He said that this campaign was initiated by the Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the completion of 75 years of India's independence which has ensured massive public participation. Praising the efforts of the Prime Minister for his farsightedness and patriotism, the Governor said that this programme will go a long way to strengthen the spirit of patriotism in the younger generation.

The Governor said that the Central Government started the 'Meri Maati Mera Desh' campaign to preserve the memories of unsung heroes and brave hearts of the villages and towns which has proved instrumental in bringing forth the contribution of the martyrs during the freedom struggle.

He said that young volunteers have collected a pinch of soil and plants from the villages and the houses of the martyrs. The soil being brought in 7500 earthen pots across the country will be used in construction of Amrit Vatika in New Delhi. The saplings will also be planted in the Shaheed Vatika so that the coming generations remember the supreme sacrifices made by the martyrs.

Shri Shukla said that it is the duty of every section of the society to respect our brave soldiers. He praised the Jawans of ITBP deployed in snowy and difficult border areas and expressed his gratitude towards them for the services being rendered by them.

The Governor flagged-off the earthen pots collected from villages, urban bodies and by the ITBP from 10 different passes of the state to New Delhi.

He asked the volunteers of Nehru Yuva Kendra visiting New Delhi to ensure their participation in maintaining the pride of Himachal Pradesh. He said that they should feel proud that they belong to Himachal Pradesh which is land of soldiers and country's first Paramveer Chakra was given to Major Somnath, who hailed from this State.

The Governor also administered oath to public to register their participation in making India a developed country.

Director Nehru Yuva Kendra Ira Prabhat gave a detailed account of the achievements of Nehru Yuva Kendra across the state.

Commandant CRPF Kedar Rawat presented a memento to the Governor.

MP Suresh Kashyap, Secretary Education Rakesh Kanwar, Secretary to the Governor Rajesh Sharma, Vice Chancellor Dr. Y.S. Parmar Horticulture and Forestry University, Nauni Rajeshwar Chandel were also present on the occasion.