Panaji, April 16, 2015 …. The Governor of Goa, Mrs. Mridulla Sinha presented Dalit Mitra Puraskar at an impressive ceremony held at Institute Menezes Braganza Hall in city recently.
The award is an initiative of the Dalit Sanghatana which was conferred on former Speaker of Goa Legislative Assembly, Prof. Surendra Sirsat for his contribution for the social cause on the occasion of 124th Birth Anniversary of Bharat Ratna Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar.
Addressing the gathering after the presentation ceremony, the Governor Mrs. Mridulla Sinha said, Dr. Ambedkar’s learning, wisdom and deep concern for human dignity gave a new dimension to equality. Further she said, inequality is a blot on our society and our civilization. While the Government is most concerned about it and is making constant endeavors to give a rightful place to the poor and backward classes in the society. Speaking further the Governor emphasized that voluntary sector should also make efforts to give a further impetus to these efforts with their willing co-operation.
The Governor said great leaders like Mahatma Gandhi and Dr. Ambedkar paved the way for us to eradicate the social evils that impeded our progress. We are fortunate that this country has produced such great leaders who made lasting contribution to bring about social reforms.
Smt. Sinha said, when we think of the life of great leader like Dr. B. R. Ambedkar, we are inspired by the supreme dedication with which he served the country and for the cause of emancipating the poor and the down trodden millions. She said that he is remembered for the great ideals of knowledge, equality and compassion and human freedom. He was indeed one of the greatest reformers and educationist of our country she added.
The Governor stressed on the work done by Dr. Ambedkar towards up liftment of society and said, he fought fearlessly against social evils of casteism and untouchability which had undermined the very unity of the Indian society.
Elaborating on “Sachchi Dosti” programe that was recently organized at Raj Bhavan, the Governor said, the idea behind organizing the programme is to remove inequality among the children studying in private and public schools. Total 40 students had participated in said programme and the Governor advised them to maintain their friendship throughout their life and meet once in 15 days and exchange pleasantries.
The function was presided by former Union Law Minister Shri Ramakant Khalap, who also spoke on the occasion.
A Souvenir by name “Watchal” was released on the occasion at the hands of the Governor.
Smt. Ashu Mochemadkar read out the messages sent by the Chief Minister Shri Laxmikant Parsekar and Speaker of Goa Legislative Assembly, Shri Rajendra Arlekar.
Earlier Shri Subhash Halarnkar welcomed the guest and proposed vote of thanks. The function was compered by Shri Shambhu Bandekar.
