Dhanbad, Sep 20: Jharkhand Governor Santosh Kumar Gangwar on Sunday said social initiatives such as Ekal Abhiyan can contribute significantly to bringing education, values and awareness to people living in remote parts of the country.Addressing an Acharya and Vyas Samman ceremony organised by Ekal Abhiyan at IIT (ISM), Dhanbad, Gangwar said the initiative has expanded from its beginnings in Dhanbad into a wider social movement.
He recalled the efforts of late Madanlal Agrawal, who had initiated work to take education to rural and forest-dominated areas.
The governor said the journey demonstrates how sustained efforts, dedication and community participation can turn a social commitment into a broader movement for change.
According to Gangwar, Ekal Abhiyan goes beyond formal education and also focuses on areas such as health, development, social awareness and value-based learning. He said spreading education and awareness in villages can create greater confidence and opportunities for children, families and communities.
The governor stressed that education should be accompanied by values and a sense of responsibility. While knowledge helps an individual become capable, he said, values provide direction in life.
He highlighted the role of Ekal Shrihari Sanskar Shiksha activities, including Harikatha, satsang, family-oriented programmes and cultural initiatives, in connecting communities with traditions and social values.
Gangwar also appreciated the contribution of Vyas storytellers who travel to villages to conduct Harikatha and satsang programmes.
He said storytelling has traditionally served as a means of passing knowledge, experience and values from one generation to another.Referring to Jharkhand’s tribal traditions and folk culture, the governor said the state’s identity is closely linked with community life, respect for nature and collective participation.
He stressed that development should go hand in hand with preservation of cultural heritage and traditional values, adding that comprehensive social development requires the participation of civil society organisations, institutions and citizens alongside government efforts.
