Rich tributes were paid in Himachal Pradesh to former Prime Minister and Bharat Ratna Atal Bihari Vajpayee on his first death anniversary with the main function being held in Atal Bihari Vajpayee Institute of Mountaineering and Allied Sports, Manali in Kullu district.
Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur addressed the function through video conferencing from Shimla as he could not reach in person due to inclement weather.
Thakur said that that the former Prime Minister provided a dynamic leadership to the nation and was always regarded as a world leader and was the only leader of his time who was loved and respected by all and even his political adversaries would keenly listen to his speeches both inside and outside the Parliament. He was a great Parliamentarian and commanded respect from his opponents as well. He said that Atal Ji was also known for his unique oratory skill as people from far-off places used to attend his public meetings.
He said that Atal Bihari Vajpayee introduced Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojna and national highways development project, which proved a boon for the country especially for the people of Himachal Pradesh as thousands of villages were connected with roads under this scheme. It was under his leadership that despite all odds and pressures, India carried out nuclear tests and became a nuclear power. Similarly, it was because of his strong political will that the nation gave befitting reply to Pakistan during the Kargil aggression.
The CM said that Atal ji had special connection with Himachal, which he fondly called his ‘second home’ and never missed any opportunity to come here and reciprocate by showering concern for the state.
The small house that he built in Kullu district at Prini village, surrounded by forests in the vicinity of gurgling Beas river in 90s now stands live with his memories. He said that Vajpayee was always considerate towards the developmental needs and aspirations of the people of the State.
The Chief Minister laid foundation stone of statue of Atal Bihari Vajpayee online to be erected at Manali. He also inaugurated Rs. 2.62 crore building of government senior secondary school, Jagatsukh and laid foundation stone of artificial rock climbing wall to be constructed by spending an amount of 2.80 crore. He laid foundation stone of link road from Shilla Hallan to Trashi and Dachani under NABARD to be completed by spending Rs. 4.24 crore.
Transport and Forest Minister Govind Thakur, MP Ram Swaroop Sharma and MLA Surinder Shourie were present at Manali on the occasion.
Earlier, the Chief Minister visited State BJP headquarters at Shimla and paid floral tributes on the portrait of Vajpayee.