Himachal Pradesh Observes Sadbhavana Diwas in Honor of Rajiv Gandhi

The Himachal Pradesh government has directed officials to promote national integration and communal harmony on the 80th birth anniversary of Rajiv Gandhi, celebrated as 'Sadbhavana Diwas' on August 20. Employees will take the 'Sadbhavana Pledge' to eschew violence and foster goodwill.

The Himachal Pradesh government has instructed its officials to take a pledge to promote national integration and communal harmony among people of all religions, languages, and regions on August 20, marking the 80th birth anniversary of former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi.

In an official notice, the Chief Secretary declared that the birth anniversary would be celebrated as 'Sadbhavana Diwas.' The theme aims to foster national integration and communal harmony. 'Sadbhavana Diwas' encourages citizens to eschew violence and promote goodwill among all communities.

Employees will participate by taking the 'Sadbhavana Pledge' at 11 am on the day, committing themselves to the emotional oneness and harmony of all Indians, regardless of caste, region, religion, or language. The pledge emphasizes dialogue and constitutional means to resolve differences.

Rajiv Gandhi, who assumed leadership of the Congress in 1984 following the assassination of his mother, Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, was India's youngest Prime Minister, taking office at age 40. Born on August 20, 1944, he was assassinated by an LTTE suicide bomber during an election rally in Sriperumbudur, Tamil Nadu, on May 21, 1991.

(With inputs from agencies.)