The 77th Himachal Day was celebrated in the State on Monday with Governor Shiv Pratap Shukla unfurling the Tricolour and taking the salute of an impressive march past at the State-level Himachal Day function held on the historic Ridge, Shimla. 

The march past was led by Parade Commander, IPS Abhishek in which contingents of State Police, Home Guards, and Bharat Scouts & Guides and NCC cadets also participated.

Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, Chief Minister was also present on the occasion.  

The Governor, while congratulating the people of the State on the occasion of Himachal Day, highlighted the rich heritage and natural splendour that defines this hill state. Emphasizing the role of its honest and hardworking people, he commended their resilience in overcoming geographical and economic challenges to drive rapid development as we see today. He praised the peaceful atmosphere and social harmony as hallmarks that set Himachal Pradesh apart. Recognizing the state's journey from modest beginnings to becoming a beacon of hill development, the Governor credited the unwavering dedication to its citizens. Looking ahead, he expressed confidence that the same spirit of determination will propel the state towards continued progress and prosperity.

Coming in existence on April 15, 1948 with the merger of 30 small hill princely hill states, our rich culture, high traditions and natural beauty are the distinctive identity of Dev Bhoomi, he said. The hard-working people contributed a lot in the development of the State since its formation, said the Governor.

 “This small hill state started its journey with meagre resources and today the State has emerged as the forerunner of hill development setting an example for other states to follow. The credit goes to the honest people, their passion and determination towards achieving the goals set. I hope that this zeal continues in future as well to keep the pace of development going”, said Shukla.

The Governor expressed his gratitude to those great sons of the state who have contributed in the development of Himachal Pradesh and also paid tribute to those great freedom fighters of the State who were the real heroes in paving the way in making Himachal a self-reliant state. He also paid homage to the martyrs who made supreme sacrifices for the cause of the nation.

The Governor also appealed to all the citizens to exercise their right to franchise and to ensure their cent percent participation in the Utsav of Democracy. A colourful cultural programme was also presented on the occasion.

Health Minister Dr.(Col) Dhani Ram Shandil, Revenue Minister Jagat Singh Negi, Lady Governor Janaki Shukla, Chief Secretary Prabodh Saxena, Director General of Police Sanjay Kundu, Principal Secretaries, Secretaries and senior officers of the State Government and other prominent people were also present on the occasion.