Jammu, November 8, 2025: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha today delivered the keynote address at the Ghazipur Literature Festival, highlighting the transformative power of literature and the pivotal role of writers and thinkers in shaping a just and inclusive society.
The festival, organised by Bharat Dialogues, brought together eminent authors, scholars, artists, and policymakers from across India and the global Indian diaspora, including participants from Mauritius, South Africa, Suriname, Fiji, Norway, and other nations. Among the distinguished guests were Prof. Anil Sooklal, High Commissioner of South Africa to India, and Dr. Sangeeta Balwant, Member of Parliament (Rajya Sabha).
In his address, the Lieutenant Governor lauded the Indian diaspora’s contribution to global progress and human development. “Through their integrity, hard work, and commitment to ancient Indian values, members of our diaspora have earned worldwide respect and strengthened international bonds,” he said.
Urging writers and thinkers to act as a bridge between ideas and society, the Lieutenant Governor said they occupy a unique position to influence thought and inspire change. “They have a great responsibility to promote the values of equality, justice, and fraternity, and to foster unity and social progress,” he emphasized.
“Literature, new ideas, and perspectives give strength to society. Without them, a nation may physically exist but will lack the intellectual and cultural tools necessary for rapid growth and transformation,” he said, adding, “Knowledge and critical thinking must keep society flowing like a river, never stagnant.”
The Lieutenant Governor also urged writers, thinkers, and citizens to adopt ten resolutions aimed at building a strong and developed India. These include:
Preserving knowledge and accurate history
Propagating moral values in society
Promoting social change and inclusivity
Building bridges between diverse perspectives
Encouraging critical thinking and innovation
Inspiring progress in science and technology
Strengthening the spirit of Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat
Nurturing pride in India’s shared heritage
Empowering youth with new ideas
Fostering emotional unity, good governance, and people’s participation (Jan-Bhagidari)
During the event, the Lieutenant Governor also released the book “Bhojpuri Kahavato ki Duniya” authored by Shri Sanjeev Kumar Gupta, celebrating the richness of India’s linguistic and cultural traditions.
The Ghazipur Literature Festival concluded with a call to strengthen literary dialogue, cultural identity, and intellectual exchange as key drivers of national unity and progress.
