Aizawl, the 17th June, 2026: Mizoram Governor, General (Dr) Vijay Kumar Singh, PVSM, AVSM, YSM (Retd), graced the joint celebration of the Foundation Days of Telangana and West Bengal this afternoon. The event was organised under the 'Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat' initiative at the Durbar Hall, Lok Bhavan.

In his address, Governor General (Dr) Vijay Kumar Singh highlighted the significance of the Union Government’s flagship programme, 'Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat' (One India, Great India), in fostering greater unity and harmony among the diverse communities of India. He noted that India’s rich diversity - evident in its languages, cultures, traditions, attire, cuisine, and religious practices - is the country’s unique strength and must be cherished and preserved. He encouraged the people of Mizoram, particularly the youth and students, to learn more about the cultures and traditions of other states and to make efforts to acquire proficiency in other Indian languages.

The Governor praised both states for their rich cultural heritage. He described West Bengal as one of India’s oldest and most illustrious states, known for producing numerous scientists, cinema personalities, writers, poets, musicians and revolutionaries. He specifically mentioned that India’s National Anthem and National Song, which inspire strong nationalism among citizens, originated from Bengal. Speaking on Telangana, the Governor said that despite being one of India's youngest states, it has a rich historical and cultural heritage. He praised the hardworking nature of its people and noted that Hyderabad has emerged as a major IT hub of the country.

The programme was hosted by Mrs. Lalhruaitluangi, Additional Private Secretary to the Governor. A video message from Telangana Governor Shri Shiv Pratap Shukla was screened, followed by the presentation of videos highlighting the rich cultural heritage and tourism potential of both Telangana and West Bengal. Insightful speeches were delivered by Dr. Muttu Vemula from Telangana, Assistant Professor in the Department of Education, Mizoram University and Dr. Arnab Roy from West Bengal, Assistant Professor in the Department of Food Technology, Mizoram University. 

Students from Mizoram University, Pachhunga University College and the Centre for Disaster Management added vibrancy to the occasion through colourful cultural performances. Students from Synod Higher Secondary School also participated in the event as invitees. After the programme concluded, the Governor interacted with the attendees at Upper Lawn, Lok Bhavan.

Telangana, India’s youngest state, was formed on 2 June, 2014, while West Bengal came into existence on 20 June, 1947.

The 'Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat' programme aims to promote stronger bonds and deeper understanding among the people of India’s diverse states and Union Territories by encouraging mutual appreciation of their unique cultures, traditions, and ways of life. In Mizoram, this initiative has been observed under the Governor’s leadership since June 2023, with the celebration of Foundation Days of various states and Union Territories at Lok Bhavan.