Minister urges students to balance books with life lessons

Public Works and Urban Development Minister Vikramaditya Singh on Thursday urged students not to confine themselves to bookish knowledge, but to also learn from practical life experiences.

He was speaking at a meritorious award ceremony held at Padam Government Senior Secondary School, Rampur, where over 300 outstanding students from various educational institutions in the area were honoured.

Addressing the gathering, Vikramaditya said both government and private educational institutions are doing excellent work and should be viewed equally. “The purpose of education should not be merely to pass exams, but to become good citizens and make positive contributions to society,” he emphasised.

The minister highlighted India’s strength as a democratic country, attributing it to the Constitution and the vigilance of its citizens. He urged students to exercise their rights alongside their duties and to be responsible members of society.

He added alongside education, it is essential to conserve culture, tradition, and heritage, as these form the foundation of identity. “Himachal Pradesh is renowned as the Land of Gods and embodies our shared faith and values, which the new generation should carry forward,” he said.

Vikramaditya also spoke about the Lavi Mela, describing it as a symbol of identity and pride for the Rampur region. The fair has been a centre of trade, culture, and harmony for centuries, dating back to the era of Maharaja Kehri Singh.

The minister offered prayers at Shri Sarvottam Shaktipeeth in Singla and assured the public a roadmap would be prepared for the shrine’s development, prioritising basic amenities such as building construction, road improvements and drinking water.

The Chairman of Himachal Pradesh 7th State Finance Commission and local MLA, Nand Lal, members of the Mahila Mandal and numerous dignitaries and officials were present at the event.