Shimla: The Himachal Pradesh Government on Sunday organised a farewell ceremony in honour of Shiv Pratap Shukla at the historic Peterhoff. Lady Governor Janaki Shukla was also present on the occasion.
Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu felicitated the Governor and the Lady Governor by presenting them with traditional shawls, Himachali caps and mementos as a mark of respect and appreciation for their service to the state.
Addressing the gathering, Governor Shiv Pratap Shukla described the occasion as an emotional moment as he prepared to bid farewell to Himachal Pradesh and take up a new responsibility. He said that working in any region naturally creates a sense of attachment, but his experience in Himachal Pradesh had been truly special.
“Himachal is not only Devbhoomi but also a land of affection and warmth. The people here are simple, sincere and welcoming,” he said.
The Governor expressed gratitude for the love and support he received during his tenure. He said he was leaving the state with cherished memories of the affection and cooperation extended by the people of Himachal Pradesh.
“I am thankful for the support I received from leaders of all political parties, social and cultural organisations, and the officers and employees of the state government,” he said.
He noted that Himachal Pradesh was steadily progressing on the path of development and that its peaceful environment, rich cultural traditions and strong social harmony served as a source of inspiration for continuous growth.
The Governor also stressed the need for collective efforts to tackle challenges such as drug abuse, environmental protection and the development of the tourism sector.
“I sincerely thank the state government for organising this programme. I leave with deep gratitude and wish the people of Himachal Pradesh good health, happiness and prosperity,” he added.
Speaking on the occasion, Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu said that the state was bidding farewell to a dignified and inspiring Governor.
He said that during his tenure as Governor of Himachal Pradesh, Shiv Pratap Shukla carried out his responsibilities with dignity, sensitivity and dedication, upholding the spirit and sanctity of the Constitution.
The Chief Minister added that under the Governor’s guidance, Lok Bhavan emerged as a responsive centre connected with public concerns, spreading a message of goodwill and cooperation among different sections of society.
“He remained closely connected with the people, regularly interacting with students, youth, social organisations and citizens. His visits to universities and educational institutions inspired young people to pursue knowledge, values and service to the nation,” Sukhu said.
He further said that the Governor’s respect for the culture, traditions and spiritual heritage of Devbhoomi Himachal Pradesh had been widely appreciated.
“As he assumes the responsibility of Governor of Telangana, we are confident that he will continue to serve with the same wisdom, experience and compassionate leadership,” the Chief Minister said while wishing him success, good health and happiness in his new role.
Earlier, Chief Secretary Sanjay Gupta welcomed the Governor, the Chief Minister, the Lady Governor and other distinguished guests and highlighted the Governor’s contributions to the state over the past three years.
Among those present were Kuldeep Singh Pathania, Speaker of the Himachal Pradesh Legislative Assembly, Deputy Chief Minister Mukesh Agnihotri, Cabinet Ministers, Judges of the Himachal Pradesh High Court, Director General of Police Ashok Tiwari, senior officers and other prominent dignitaries.