La Ganesan was sworn in as the 21st governor of Nagaland by Gauhati High Court Kohima Bench judge Justice Songkhupchung Setro at a solemn function held at Dr Imkongliba Ao Hall, Raj Bhavan here on Monday.
The swearing-in ceremony was held in the presence of chief minister Neiphiu Rio, deputy chief minister Y Patton, NLA speaker Sharingain Longkumer, cabinet ministers and host of senior officials.
Meanwhile, Ganesan in a statement, stressed on peace for growth and prosperity in the State. In a message after assuming charge, he called for facilitating a conducive social environment to enable the willing participation of all sections of society for inclusive development.
He emphasised on ensuring the highest standards of governance built on the principles of transparency and accountability, adding the interests of people, particularly the poor, should be supreme. He appealed to all for working together, try to reach for the stars and prove that the land was both beautiful and bountiful.
Thanking the chief minister for his warm welcome, Ganesan said he eagerly looked forward to working with him and his Council of Ministers. He also extended his greetings and good wishes to the people of the State.
He called upon all the citizens of Nagaland to participate in the world’s largest festival of democracy by proudly exercising their franchise on February 27.
Ganesan said he was overwhelmed by the affection and regard shown to him by people across the State and that he was deeply humbled by this experience.
He mentioned that it would be his sincere endeavour to live up to the expectations of all those who had chosen him, and to serve the best interests of people of the State and country.
“I am fully aware of the great responsibility that has been placed on my humble shoulders. I assure you all that I shall uphold the highest traditions of this exalted position, and will work for the principles that are sacred to our democratic values,” the message stated.
Ganesan said, “In the light of the Constitution, I will discharge my duties with utmost sincerity. I also commit fairness and justice in the discharge of my functions.”
As Nagaland was set to celebrate 60th Statehood Day, he said he drew inspiration from the courage and sacrifice of all those who had led the nation to freedom. He said the democratic-cultural ideals of India and all citizens would always be his source of energy and, as governor of the State, he assured to always extend his full cooperation to them.
He noted that Nagaland was a beautiful State and the rich cultural traditions of its talented people added a distinct colour to the diversity and splendour of India. He said he felt deeply honoured and privileged to be the First Citizen of this fascinating State.
He acknowledged that it also put an onus on him to live up to people’s expectations, which was both inspiring and challenging. Hence, he said it would be his endeavour at all times to fulfil this onus to utmost public satisfaction.
Ganesan further observed that Nagaland was also a State with tremendous potential. Its green cover, water resources, mineral wealth ad bracing climate, together with the capabilities of its people, could energise the dynamics of the economy. He stressed on science, technology and innovation in propelling the State towards building a knowledge society.
He said the people desired better governance, faster development and a life of peace and security and called for standing united in the fight against such divisive and destructive tendencies as communalism, casteism, extremism and terrorism. He appealed to all to rededicate themselves once again to the constitutional ideals and work united.