Srinagar: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Thursday said India has consistently emphasised unity in diversity and shown respect to every faith that emerged thousands of years after Sanatan Dharma.
Addressing the ‘Rishiwar Inter-Faith Conference 2026’ here, Sinha said the idea of respecting all faiths has been woven into the fabric of India’s philosophy for millennia.
“While many nations today struggle with the challenge of coexistence, diversity has been our natural rhythm of life. While many societies have devised measures to safeguard unity, India embraced the ethos and value of coexistence and practised seamlessly for thousands of years,” he said.
Sinha also said that Rigveda teaches that hearts and minds should be aligned, “our aim should be the same, our feelings in harmony, and our thoughts united.”
“Scholars and researchers worldwide agree that the spirit of equal regard for all religions finds its philosophical roots in the ancient traditions of our great country. When I reflect on the ideals and philosophies India has gifted humanity, it becomes evident that through both thought and deed, our Vedas, Upanishads, saints and seers have illuminated a path toward lasting world peace,” he added.
The lieutenant governor said that every thread of society must be woven together, advancing with a shared commitment to the welfare of humanity.
“That is precisely what humanity needs most today. The ethos of equal respect for all religions is India’s most precious gift to the world. We must continuously nurture it so we can move forward together in unity and bring prosperity to every community,” he said.
Highlighting Jammu and Kashmir’s exceptional performance during the three phases of the Vande Mataram initiative, the lieutenant governor described the achievement as extraordinary and a testament to the people’s enduring patriotic spirit.
He also lauded the overwhelming public support for the ‘Nasha Mukt Jammu Kashmir Abhiyan’ (drug-free Jammu and Kashmir campaign).
He said that participation from all sections of society has been organic and inspiring. He called upon citizens, institutions and community leaders to embrace the campaign as a people’s movement and work together towards building a drug-free and healthier society.
