Srinagar, Sep 22 (KNO): Calling Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel the “architect of modern India”, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Tuesday highlighted his decisive role in integrating 562 princely states and said his vision of “Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat” continues to inspire the country.
Addressing the launch of the book “Sardar Patel and Kashmir: The Untold History” in Srinagar, the Lieutenant Governor, as per the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO), paid homage to Patel and highlighted his role in the integration of princely states and his position on Jammu Kashmir.
LG Sinha described Patel’s indomitable will, practical wisdom and organisational strength as instrumental in integrating the princely states into a united India.
“Through his indomitable willpower, clear vision, selfless diligence and skilful organisational strength, he ensured that the dream of an undivided India became a reality. I also believe that had Sardar Patel been given the responsibility for Jammu Kashmir, perhaps the problems that the people here endured for more than six decades would not have arisen,” he said.
The Lieutenant Governor recalled Patel’s firm stance on Jammu Kashmir, noting his declaration that “we will not give even an inch of Jammu Kashmir’s territory to anyone.”
He said Patel had a deep understanding of the nation’s pulse and was able to connect with common people, workers and communities across India.
The Lieutenant Governor said Patel’s vision of “Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat” continues to define the essence of India’s democracy and unity in diversity.
‘ARTICLE 370 ERA NOW PART OF HISTORY’
LG Sinha described the abrogation of Articles 370 and 35A in August 2019 as the fulfilment of Patel’s unfinished dream and said the constitutional change had opened new possibilities for education, employment, entrepreneurship and development for the youth.
“In August 2019, under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the nation witnessed a historic constitutional change. New possibilities of education, employment, entrepreneurship and development opened up for the youth.
“The Prime Minister’s decision proved that when national interest becomes the supreme priority, no obstacle remains permanent. This is the same firm willpower whose glimpse we saw in Sardar Patel’s nation-building efforts in 1947. I believe that by consigning the era of Article 370 to history, Jammu Kashmir now stands at the threshold of a new future,” he said.
FOUR PRIORITIES FOR JAMMU KASHMIR
The Lieutenant Governor outlined four priorities for Jammu Kashmir’s future: peace through zero tolerance towards terrorism, rapid development through infrastructure and connectivity, empowerment of youth by linking them to India’s digital economy and startup culture and revival of cultural heritage to strengthen tourism and human values.
He envisioned Srinagar, Jammu and other cities of the Union Territory as vibrant centres of education, trade and innovation. “The most valuable asset of Jammu Kashmir is its talented youth and their energy must continue to be transformed into nation-building,” he said.
‘HISTORY SHOULD BE A MIRROR OF TRUTH’
LG Sinha further described the book as a serious attempt to re-evaluate history with honesty and impartiality. He cautioned that for too long, historical narratives had been shaped by ideological biases that overlooked the decisive contributions of leaders such as Patel.
He urged the new generation of writers to treat history as a “mirror of truth”, not as a tool for glorification, and to learn from past decisions to guide the future.
He described the book as a “lighthouse” illuminating Patel’s dream of a united and confident India and called upon citizens to dedicate themselves to the ideals of unity, integrity and patriotism, and to build an India that leads the world not only economically but also through moral leadership, cultural richness and democratic values.
The Lieutenant Governor also expressed gratitude to Bhagwan Swaminarayan Ji and commended the Maninagar Swaminarayan Gadi Sansthan for its contributions to spiritual upliftment, education and humanitarian service. He also congratulated Dr Rizwan Kadri for editing and publishing the book.
Acharya Jitendriyapriyadasji Swamiji Maharaj, Kishor Makwana, Chairperson, National Commission for Scheduled Castes, Dr Rizwan Kadri, Swami Bhagwat Priya Das Ji, Brij Mohan Sharma, Principal Secretary, Culture Department, senior officials, prominent literary personalities and office bearers of Maninagar Shree Swaminarayan Gadi Sansthan attended the book launch ceremony—(KNO)