Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami attended the Sanskar Diwas and Foundation Day celebrations at The TonsBridge School in Dehradun on Wednesday, October 21. He stressed the importance of combining modern education with Indian culture, moral values and practical skills.
Addressing students, teachers, parents and other guests, Dhami said education should do more than prepare young people for careers. It should also help them become responsible, honest and compassionate citizens.
He explained that knowledge shows people the way forward, while values help them choose the right path. Therefore, students must focus on character, discipline, honesty and hard work alongside academic achievement.
The chief minister praised the school for promoting Indian traditions alongside modern learning. He said such an approach could help students develop strong personalities and prepare them for future challenges.
Dhami also described Sanskar Diwas as an opportunity to renew the commitment to India’s cultural heritage. He encouraged students to respect their traditions while remaining open to new ideas and opportunities. <Cite refs={[“turn562146search0″,”turn562146search1”]}/>
Students Encouraged to Follow APJ Abdul Kalam’s Example
During the ceremony, Dhami recalled that former President and renowned scientist Dr APJ Abdul Kalam inaugurated The TonsBridge School in 2015. He described Kalam’s life as a powerful source of inspiration for young people.
The chief minister said students should dream big and work consistently to achieve their goals. He stressed that success requires determination, patience and the courage to face challenges.
Dhami also encouraged students to read Kalam’s autobiography, Wings of Fire. He said the book could inspire them to set clear goals and learn from difficult experiences.
According to Dhami, students should not become discouraged by failure. Instead, they should identify their mistakes and use those experiences to improve.
He added that every student has the potential to succeed. However, recognising that potential requires effort, guidance and a willingness to keep learning.
The chief minister urged students to remain disciplined and honest in their daily lives. He said these qualities would help them build confidence and make responsible decisions as they grow.
Modern Technology Must Go Hand in Hand With Indian Values
Dhami said India was advancing rapidly in technology, innovation and modern science under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership. He noted that emerging technologies would create new opportunities for students in the coming years.
As a result, young people must develop relevant skills and creative thinking. They should also learn to adapt to changing professional and social environments.
However, Dhami emphasised that technical knowledge alone would not be enough. He encouraged students to practise yoga, meditation and discipline while respecting Indian traditions.
He said a balance between modern education and traditional values could strengthen their personalities. Such a balance could also help them become confident professionals and responsible citizens.
The chief minister highlighted the importance of respect, cooperation and helping those in need. He said these principles form an important part of Indian culture and support harmony within society.
Dhami also referred to the idea of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam, which means “the world is one family”. He encouraged students to respect diversity and treat others with dignity.
National Education Policy Focuses on Skills and Creativity
The chief minister highlighted the role of the National Education Policy in improving learning outcomes. He said the policy places importance on holistic development, creativity and practical skills.
According to Dhami, education must prepare students for real-world challenges. It should help them identify their strengths and apply their knowledge in practical situations.
He added that the Uttarakhand government was working to align the state’s education system with future needs. The aim is to equip young people with skills that can improve their employment prospects.
Moreover, Dhami said students should look beyond traditional employment. He encouraged them to consider self-employment and entrepreneurship as well.
Young people who establish businesses can create opportunities for others, he said. This could support local economic growth and help strengthen Uttarakhand’s economy.
The chief minister stressed that skill development and innovation would remain important to the state’s progress. He urged students to use their education to contribute to society and the nation.
Dhami Highlights Transparent Recruitment and Youth Employment
Dhami also discussed the government’s efforts to improve recruitment opportunities for young people. He said a strict anti-cheating law had been introduced to prevent irregularities in competitive examinations.
According to the chief minister, more than 35,000 young people secured government jobs over the previous five years through a transparent recruitment system.
He presented the figure as evidence of the government’s efforts to provide fair opportunities. He also stressed that recruitment processes must remain transparent so candidates can compete on merit.
Dhami said young people who work hard deserve a fair chance to achieve their ambitions. He added that confidence in recruitment systems was essential for students preparing for competitive examinations.
The government, he said, would continue working to protect young people’s interests. Better education, skills and employment opportunities would help them build secure futures within the state.
Skilled and Self-Reliant Youth Key to Uttarakhand’s Growth
Dhami reiterated the government’s commitment to making Uttarakhand one of India’s leading states. He described educated, skilled, value-driven and self-reliant young people as essential to achieving that goal.
He expressed confidence that TonsBridge School students would contribute to the state’s development. He said their knowledge, talent and values could help them bring recognition to Uttarakhand and the country.
The chief minister also reminded students that success has no shortcut. Consistent effort, discipline, honesty and a willingness to learn remain essential for long-term achievement.
He urged them to use their abilities responsibly and remain committed to their goals. He also encouraged them to view education as a means of serving society, rather than simply achieving personal success.
School management representatives, teachers, parents, students and other distinguished guests attended the ceremony.
Education and Values Remain Central to Youth Development
Dhami’s address placed equal emphasis on academic learning, character building and practical skills. His message highlighted the need to prepare students for a changing world without losing sight of cultural identity.
The focus on technology and creativity reflects the growing importance of skills in education. At the same time, his emphasis on discipline and integrity underlined the role of personal values in shaping responsible citizens.
For Uttarakhand, developing skilled and self-reliant young people remains an important part of its wider growth ambitions. Education, entrepreneurship and fair employment opportunities can help young people contribute to the state’s economy.
The TonsBridge School ceremony provided a platform for Dhami to share this vision with students and educators. His message was clear: knowledge becomes more meaningful when people apply it with responsibility, strong values and a commitment to society.