Governor La. Ganesan said the business practices and ethics of Rajasthanis, particularly the Marwaris, who have long served as exemplary models both within and beyond the state, greatly influenced the local entrepreneurs and fostered a culture of enterprise and innovation in Nagaland.
Speaking at the Rajasthan state foundation day celebration on March 30 at Raj Bhavan Kohima, Ganesan said Rajasthan’s significant role in various aspects of India’s commercial landscape, including commerce, culture, and social development, extends to Nagaland as well.
“Their notable contributions in commerce and trade have facilitated the availability of goods and services in the region, while their business establishments have provided employment opportunities for the local populace, thus linking Nagaland to broader markets across India,” said the governor.
According to PRO Raj Bhavan, the governor, in addition to their involvement in commerce and trade, Rajasthanis, residing in Nagaland, have played a significant role in social upliftment endeavours. He said numerous individuals have made impactful contributions to the local community through initiatives in education, healthcare, and social welfare.
Ganesan said their educational institutions, scholarship programs, and healthcare services have offered crucial support to the Naga populace, contributing to enhanced quality of life and improved social indicators across the state.
The governor called on fostering the bonds of friendship between the people of Nagaland and Rajasthan and cherishing the shared heritage, building upon it for a prosperous and harmonious future, showcasing collective resilience.
Ganesan said the commemoration of Rajasthan’s journey as a state of India today also recognises the pivotal role every citizen plays in shaping a vibrant India, as both Nagaland and Rajasthan are home to industrious, resilient, and peace-loving individuals. Together, he said, both are not just states but a united family within the union of India.
The governor said Rajasthan holds a profoundly significant place in the socio-cultural, economic and historical landscape of the country. “Rajasthan’s multi-faceted contributions to India span cultural, economic, ecological and strategic dimensions. Its vibrant culture, historical importance, economic contributions and strategic location underscore its significance to our country’s identity, economy and security,” Ganesan added.
Paying tribute to the spirit of the nation through the “Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat” initiative, he said the initiative aims to deepen understanding and foster bonds among states, thereby fortifying India’s unity and integrity. Furthermore, he said it seeks to celebrate the residents of each state, regardless of their geographical location within the country.
Earlier, a video presentation on a goodwill message from the Governor of Rajasthan, Kalraj Mishra, and the cultural heritage and tradition of Rajasthan was screened. An opening remark was delivered by secretary to governor, Rajesh Soundararajan, the speech on Rajasthan State was read out by conservator of Forests, Dimapur, Raj Priy Singh, short speeches by Basu Damani, general secretary of Shree Marwari Samaj, Dimapur and vice president BJP, Nagaland. Other highlights of the programme included cultural dances performed by the Rajasthani community of Dimapur.