In a first, bust of Mahatma Gandhi unveiled in US state of Montana

In a first, a bust of Mahatma Gandhi has been unveiled in the US state of Montana, as authorities underscored that the ideals of nonviolence espoused by him are much needed in the current world order. Montana Governor Greg Gianforte, along with Consul General of India in Seattle Prakash Gupta, jointly unveiled the bust, which is a gift from the Government of India to the state of Montana.

The bust has been installed at the prestigious Mike Mansfield Centre of the University of Montana in Missoula on Tuesday, a press release by the Consulate General of India in Seattle said. Addressing the gathering, Gianforte expressed gratitude to the Consulate for the gift of the bust.

While acknowledging strengthening ties between India and Montana, Gianforte praised the ideals of nonviolence that Mahatma Gandhi espoused, as much-needed values in the world order today, the release said.

Founded by an act of the US Congress in 1983, the Mansfield Centre at the University of Montana aims to foster globally minded leaders of integrity and supports youth and communities through civic and international education guided by ethical leadership, civic responsibility and unconditional commitment to public good, it added.