President Kovind singles out Neerja Bhanot for doing Chandigarh proud

Tribune News Service

Chandigarh, February 28

President Ram Nath Kovind on Wednesday praised city girl Neerja Bhanot for her bravery, saying the country was proud of her.

Speaking at MCM DAV College for Women here at its golden jubilee celebrations, Kovind said, “There is a long list of women achievers from Chandigarh. But if I have to take one name I will mention Neerja Bhanot. In 1986, she foiled the plans of terrorists with her bravery and saved 359 air passengers. Not just Chandigarh, but the entire nation is proud of her, who laid down her life for the safety of others.”

Praising the planning of Chandigarh, he said, “Chandigarh is the first planned city of India. It is an example of ‘Harit Bharat’, ‘Swachh Bharat’ and ‘Swasth Bharat’. The citizens have contributed a lot to its present form.”

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Speaking on women empowerment, he said, “In the male-dominated society, women have to face a lot of obstacles. But how can they come out of it? In my understanding, if parents and families allow freedom to think freely and allow them to gain experience in new fields, it would enhance their confidence. Flying Officer Avani Chaturvedi alone flew the fighter jet last year. Haryana’s Phogat sisters have also shown that no field is taboo for the daughters. If parents of PV Sindhu, Sania Mirza, Sanya Nehwal and Aruna Reddy had not granted them freedom, exposure and encouragement, how would they achieve success?”

He added, “Women have to attend to family duties. But these responsibilities shouldn’t become obstacles in their lives. Manipur’s Mary Kom continued to play and win despite entering into married life. She is a source of inspiration for Indian women.”

He remembered the contribution of first principal Shakuntla Rai and then Sneh Mahajan, daughter of Mehr Chand Mahajan, for the college. “MCM DAV College has made good contribution in women education in the north India. I hope, after 50 years when there would be a function on completion of its 100 years, it would be on the map of the academic world,” he said.    

Praised Mehr Chand Mahajan for his nationalism

“I can remember the date when Mehr Chand Mahajan got the responsibility of PM of Kashmir on October 15, 1947. When the decision was to be taken for the merger of Kashmir, he took the decision of accession to India. He was guided by Desh Prem (love for country). I salute his nationalism,” said the President.

Mentions Rock Garden

“This city has done exceptionally well when it comes to disposing of waste and the example is Nek Chand’s Rock Garden. The planners of the city are behind it. From the very beginning, there is a focus on recycling, reuse and rejuvenation,” said the President. He added that Chandigarh had set an example in the use of garbage, industrial waste and renewable energy.

Praises Chandigarh MP

Kovind also praised Chandigarh MP Kirron Kher for her achievements in Bollywood.