Education Secretary Rakesh Kanwar, who attended as the Guest of Honour, said that Urdu and Sanskrit had been taught as additional languages in schools in Himachal Pradesh, while Punjabi was also taught in some schools, although their reach remained limited.

Stressing that there is a dire need to transform the mindset of the youth from job seekers into job creators, he stated that the 100-day roadmap serves as an effective blueprint to bridge the gap between academic education and real-world market demands. By equipping students with practical skills, fostering innovation and opening avenues for self-reliance in key sectors like horticulture and forestry, the roadmap will enable the state's youth to become active leaders in economic growth and key contributors to a developed India.

Referring to the vision of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the Governor said the message of ‘Vikas bhi, Virasat bhi’ underlines the importance of pursuing development while safeguarding India’s rich heritage and natural environment. He also referred to initiatives such as Mission LiFE and ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’, saying environmental conservation must become a collective responsibility and part of everyday life.

On the occasion, the Governor recalled the revered saint Baba Neem Karoli Maharaj, whose spiritual association with this sacred place occupies an important place in the history and tradition of the Sankat Mochan Temple. Baba Neem Karoli Maharaj spent time in meditation at this serene location and expressed his desire to have a temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman established here. Inspired by his vision

Gupta said that the sacred temples and pilgrimage sites of Himachal Pradesh are not only centres of faith and devotion but also an integral part of the State's rich spiritual and cultural heritage. He emphasized the need to preserve and promote the state’s religious traditions, ancient heritage and spiritual legacy.

The Governor appreciated the Mutt’s efforts towards preserving traditional knowledge systems and imparting value-based education. He said that the Gurukul tradition represents an important dimension of India’s indigenous educational heritage, where learning is integrated with discipline, character building, spirituality, service and respect for society.

The Governor appreciated that the initiative has generated around 692 direct employment opportunities, with nearly 90 percent of them going to women, while around 60 percent received their first employment opportunity through the programme. He said the provision of free education, books, stationery, bags, laptops and other essential resources had helped reduce the educational expenses of thousands of families. According to the available figures, more than 12,000 families have collectively saved over Rs. 5.40 crore.

Shri Kaal Bhairav holds a prominent place among the Ashta Bhairavas and is revered as the **guardian and Kotwal (protector) of Ujjain**. The ancient temple is an important centre of faith, devotion and spiritual traditions, attracting devotees from across the country throughout the year.

Concluding his remarks, Prime Minister Modi encouraged young people to develop the habit of reading autobiographies. He said that in an era dominated by social media and the search for shortcuts, young people should understand that there is no easy route to lasting success. Autobiographies provide an opportunity to understand history closely and learn from the struggles and experiences of those who have shaped the nation.

The Governor welcomed the Indian Himalayan Nalanda Buddhist Tradition Council's initiative to introduce the National Institute of Open Schooling (NIOS) curriculum in monasteries. He said this would help young monks and nuns receive recognized academic qualifications while continuing their traditional religious education.