Past 2 years were trying, VP Singh Badnore’s parting shot

Tribune News Service

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Chandigarh, August 30

“I don’t want to go into the development side of my tenure; whatever I achieved and whatever I could not, I leave it to you to judge. As development is a continuous affair…it doesn’t stop…there is always scope for more,” said outgoing Punjab Governor and UT Administrator VP Singh Badnore in his farewell speech here today.

Badnore today relinquished office on the completion of his five-year term. He had taken over as the Governor of Punjab and UT Administrator on August 22, 2016.

In his emotionally charged farewell speech, Badnore said he would remain indebted to his officers at the Punjab Raj Bhawan, Punjab Government and the UT Administration for extending full support and cooperation during his tenure.

“I don’t wish to make a long speech today, but would like to recall coming here five years ago. I also recall that there was a downpour at my swearing-in ceremony and everybody got wet. All dignitaries and guests had to leave the function and could not even have the high tea which was organised. But that seemed to be very auspicious,” Badnore recalled.

He said, “In my journey of five years, the past two were trying and challenging for the entire world, and Chandigarh and Punjab were no exceptions. Together we faced many difficult moments but with the grace of the Almighty, we sailed through. I must say it was good team work. The real concept of the tricity was virtually seen during this Covid crisis; I am happy that I was a part of that.”

I want to thank the people of Punjab and Chandigarh for generously showering love and blessings and also bestowing faith in me during my memorable and fulfilling term.

With all humility at my command, with a sense of gratitude and a prayer in my heart, I take leave of you. I am leaving with a sense of fulfilment and happiness of having served the people of this state through this institution to the best of my ability.”

On the occasion, the outgoing Governor got a coffee table book, titled “The Raj Bhawan Punjab – A Glorious Journey”, which includes all important functions and other details of the Governors of Punjab from 1947 till date, released by the Punjab Chief Minister, Capt Amarinder Singh, and also presented him a copy. Another book titled, “Punjab Raj Bhawan Mini Rock Garden- A tribute to Padma Shri Nek Chand” was also presented to the Chief Minister.

Badnore and his wife Alka Singh were accorded a ceremonial send-off by officers and staff of the Punjab Raj Bhawan.

New Administrator to take oath today

• Tamil Nadu Governor Banwarilal Purohit, who has been given the additional charge of Punjab Governor and UT Administrator, will arrive in Chandigarh at noon on Tuesday. He will be administered the oath of office around 5 pm on Tuesday.
• Born on April 16, 1940, Purohit was appointed the Governor of Tamil Nadu in 2017. He was appointed the Governor of Assam on August 17, 2016. He was a MP from the Nagpur Lok Sabha constituency three times, twice as a Congress member and once as a BJP member.