Associated News Bureau

LG Sinha Highlights India’s Tradition of Religious Harmony at Rishiwar Inter-Faith Conference in Srinagar

Srinagar, June 4: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Thursday attended the Rishiwar Inter-Faith Conference 2026 in Srinagar and underscored India’s centuries-old tradition of religious harmony, coexistence, and respect for all faiths. Addressing the gathering, the Lieutenant Governor said the principle of honoring all religions equally has remained an integral part of India’s philosophical and cultural heritage for millennia. He noted that while many nations continue to grapple with challenges of coexistence, diversity has long been a natural way of life in India. He said India embraced the ethos of unity in diversity and practiced peaceful coexistence for thousands of years, adding that respect for different ideas and beliefs has always been a hallmark of Sanatan Dharma. He observed that the country has consistently extended respect to all faiths and traditions while preserving its inclusive civilizational values. Referring to ancient scriptures, the Lieutenant Governor said the Rigveda advocates harmony of thought, purpose, and collective well-being. He emphasized that scholars and researchers around the world acknowledge that the philosophy of equal respect for all religions has its roots in India’s ancient traditions. Highlighting India’s contribution to global peace, he said the teachings of the Vedas, Upanishads, saints, and seers have offered humanity a path towards lasting harmony and mutual understanding. He stressed that every section of society must work together with a shared commitment to the welfare of humanity. Describing equal respect for all religions as one of India’s greatest gifts to the world, the Lieutenant Governor called for continued efforts to strengthen the values of unity, inclusiveness, and social harmony to ensure prosperity for all communities. The Lieutenant Governor also praised the exceptional public participation witnessed during the three phases of the Vande Mataram initiative in Jammu and Kashmir, terming it a reflection of the people’s enduring patriotic spirit. He further commended the widespread support for the Nasha Mukt Jammu Kashmir Abhiyaan, stating that the campaign has received organic and encouraging participation from all sections of society. He urged citizens, institutions, and community leaders to transform the initiative into a mass movement aimed at building a drug-free and healthier society. Among those present on the occasion were Justice Sanjay Dhar, Syed Darakhshan Andrabi, Nilofer Khan, Meena Sharma, along with saints, senior officers of the judiciary, police and civil administration, academics, students, and members of the public. ANB