On November 2, 2023, Lieutenant Governor Kavinder Gupta addressed a large gathering in Mohali during the closing ceremony of the 5th Edition of the Shiksha Mahakumbh Abhiyan 2025 at the National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research (NIPER). The event brought together teachers, researchers, and students from across India to discuss how education can shape the nation’s future. The theme, “From Classroom to Society – Building a Healthier World through Education,” perfectly matched the idea that Ladakh is becoming a knowledge hub of the Himalayas.

During his speech, Gupta spoke about India’s proud tradition of learning and self-reliance. He said, “Our rulers may have been enslaved, but the soul of Bharat never accepted subjugation.” His words reminded the audience that knowledge has always been India’s strength, even during difficult times.

He praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership in advancing education through the National Education Policy (NEP 2020). Gupta emphasized that India’s education system is now moving beyond textbooks. “Under the Prime Minister’s leadership, India’s education system has evolved to include technology, skills, and values,” he said. According to him, this approach creates responsible citizens who can serve the country’s development.

Gupta also acknowledged Vidya Bharati’s role in promoting discipline, cultural awareness, and national pride among students. “Education must not only enlighten the mind but also awaken the moral conscience of the nation,” he said. He encouraged teachers to help students connect classroom lessons to real-life community goals.

He discussed how education has strengthened social unity in Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh. “There was a time when misguided voices tried to divide people, but now education has united them,” Gupta said. He added that learning has replaced fear with hope and inspired youth to aim higher.

Speaking about Ladakh’s achievements, Gupta highlighted that the region has made remarkable progress in literacy. “Inspired by Prime Minister Modi’s vision of Viksit Bharat 2047, Ladakh has made education the center of its growth model,” he said. The Union Territory is now a Fully Functionally Literate Region under the ULLAS (New India Literacy Programme) with a literacy rate of 97%, far above the national average.

The establishment of the University of Ladakh has been a game-changer. It has become a center for innovation and cross-cultural learning. Additionally, more than 150 Smart Classrooms and 171 ICT Labs have been set up to improve digital education in schools. The construction of 36 PM SHRI Schools will soon add modern facilities to further raise educational standards.

Before the closing ceremony, Prof. (Dr.) Thakur S.K.R, Director of DHE, presented a detailed report summarizing discussions and future plans for the Shiksha Mahakumbh. Many teachers and students were honored for their excellence in education. Dilaram Chauhan, General Secretary of Vidya Bharati (North Zone), delivered a keynote address emphasizing the importance of collaboration between schools and society.

Bal Kishan, Joint Organising Secretary of Vidya Bharati, North Zone, described the event as “a living example of cooperation between schools, universities, and communities.” This partnership shows how unity in education can lead to national progress.

The activities and ideas shared during the Shiksha Mahakumbh show a firm commitment to transforming education in the Himalayan region. They highlight how a focus on learning can build a peaceful, inclusive, and strong society.

With steady development and visionary leadership, Ladakh is becoming a knowledge hub of the Himalayas. The region’s success reflects India’s growing emphasis on education, innovation, and values that will guide the next generation toward a brighter future.

Education

In a proud moment for the education sector, 35 students pass NDA exam from Shemrock Senior Secondary School, Sector 69, Mohali. This achievement marks an important milestone for students dreaming of joining the Indian Armed Forces. The NDA (National Defence Academy) exam is a crucial step for those who want to serve as officers in the Army, Navy, or Air Force, and success here opens doors to a prestigious military career.

During a special felicitation ceremony, Director Maj Gen H Chauhan (VSM) shared exciting details about the school’s consistent record. Since 2013, Shemrock has guided 270 cadets to join the NDA and other military or naval academies. Out of them, 141 have already completed their training and are now serving as commissioned officers, which reflects the institution’s dedication and quality of training.

The recent batch achieved impressive results in the written exam. A total of 57 students appeared, and 47 passed, resulting in a remarkable 82.5% success rate. This figure is far above the national average and shows the school’s strong focus on exam preparation, discipline, and mentoring. The 35 students who cleared the main stage now move closer to their dream of wearing the uniform.

Chairman AS Bajwa praised the students’ determination and teamwork. He emphasized that such achievements require not just academic preparation but also resilience, leadership, and commitment. According to him, the result is proof of Shemrock’s long-term vision to shape young leaders for the armed forces.

Now, these successful candidates will prepare for the next major step: the Services Selection Board (SSB) interview. This stage is highly competitive and tests physical strength, mental toughness, and leadership qualities. Success here will officially make them officers in training, bringing them one step closer to serving the nation.

The NDA is not only a career opportunity but also a transformative journey. Cadets undergo rigorous training in leadership, discipline, and teamwork. These qualities prepare them not just for military life but also to contribute positively to society. Many officers from the NDA go on to hold senior positions in defense and national security.

For students across Punjab and India, this success story is deeply inspiring. It shows that with the right guidance, discipline, and hard work, even challenging goals can be achieved. The story also highlights the growing importance of specialized schools that prepare students for competitive national-level exams.

The Shemrock School community celebrated the achievement with pride. Teachers, parents, and alumni expressed confidence that these students will excel in the next stages and make the country proud. Their journey also sets a benchmark for future aspirants who want to follow a similar path.

In conclusion, the fact that 35 students pass NDA exam this year is not just a school-level success, it is a significant contribution to the nation’s future defense leadership. With continued training, mentorship, and determination, these young cadets are on track to become the next generation of Indian Armed Forces officers.

Education

The Punjab CM urges teachers to preserve heritage during a special Teacher’s Day event held in Anandpur Sahib, Punjab. On a bright Sunday morning, Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann met hundreds of teachers and praised their contribution to building the future of the state. He called teachers the “true builders of the nation” and urged them to teach students about Punjab’s rich culture and glorious history.

CM Mann said teaching is not just a job but a mission. Being the son of a teacher, he understands the dedication, patience, and love that go into shaping young minds. He encouraged teachers to pass on Punjab’s traditional values, language, and heritage to ensure that the next generation remains connected to its roots.

This year has been especially difficult for Punjab because of devastating floods. Mann informed the audience that 3,200 government schools and 19 colleges were severely damaged. Additionally, nearly 8,500 kilometers of roads and 2,500 bridges were washed away. Despite this destruction, he said that the spirit of Punjabis remains strong.

The Chief Minister also mentioned that floods ruined crops across five lakh acres of farmland. He highlighted how this affected farmers and their families, yet he praised the courage and unity of people who stood together during this crisis. According to him, such strength is what defines Punjab’s character.

Mann also appreciated teachers who continued supporting students even during the floods. Many teachers helped local families, offered shelter in schools, and provided moral support to children who lost their homes. He said, “Such acts of humanity are rare in the world.”

During the event, 71 teachers received the State Teacher Award for their outstanding work. Mann said these awards are not just honors but symbols of gratitude for those shaping young lives. Recognizing teachers, he said, is essential to inspire others to serve with equal passion and honesty.

The Chief Minister explained the deeper meaning of the word “Guru”, derived from Sanskrit: “Gu” meaning darkness and “Ru” meaning remover. A teacher, he said, removes the darkness of ignorance and replaces it with the light of knowledge. He added that teachers are like sculptors who carve young students into doctors, engineers, artists, and leaders of tomorrow.

Another key announcement made by CM Mann was about a heritage walkway leading to Takht Sri Kesgarh Sahib in Anandpur Sahib. This project, launched after 55 years, aims to preserve Punjab’s spiritual and cultural legacy. The walkway will showcase the state’s art, history, and traditional architecture, attracting tourists and teaching the youth about their ancestral pride.

Mann said that even though Punjab faces natural disasters, the government remains committed to improving education. Investments are being made to rebuild schools, train teachers, and modernize classrooms. The goal is to give students the best learning environment while keeping cultural education alive.

He also shared that Punjab now has world-class trained teachers in government schools. These educators use modern teaching techniques and also inspire moral and cultural learning. Mann emphasized that strong teachers mean strong students, and strong students mean a strong Punjab.

In the end, CM Mann said that teachers carry the responsibility of preserving Punjab’s soul. By teaching about the state’s history, art, and language, they ensure that future generations never forget their roots. The event concluded with applause as teachers pledged to continue their mission with dedication and pride.

As the Punjab CM urges teachers to preserve heritage, this message reminds everyone that education is not only about knowledge, it is also about keeping culture, identity, and values alive for generations to come.

Education