Himachal to observe Anti-Terrorism Day on May 21; employees to take pledge
Shimla, May 20
The Himachal Pradesh government will observe "Anti-Terrorism Day" across the state on May 21 with pledge-taking ceremonies in all government offices, public sector undertakings and public institutions aimed at promoting peace, social harmony and opposition to terrorism and violence.
According to an official communication issued by the General Administration Department (GAD), the observance is intended to discourage the youth and the public from the path of terrorism and violence and reinforce the country's tradition of non-violence and tolerance.
As part of the programme, employees in all state government offices and institutions have been directed to participate in a collective pledge-taking ceremony at 11:00 AM on Thursday. The government has circulated the pledge text in both Hindi and English for official use.
Deputy Secretary (GAD) Anil Kumar has instructed all Deputy Commissioners, Superintendents of Police, Divisional Commissioners, Heads of Departments and Managing Directors of boards and corporations to ensure proper implementation of the directions and submit an Action Taken Report subsequently.
Special arrangements have also been made at the Himachal Pradesh Secretariat, where officers and employees have been asked to assemble at the Armsdale Ground at 11:00 AM sharp to participate in the ceremony.
The Director of Information and Public Relations has been directed to ensure wide publicity of the observance through newspapers and electronic media.
The official Anti-Terrorism Day pledge reaffirms commitment to oppose all forms of terrorism and violence and to uphold peace, social harmony and understanding among all sections of society.
— ANI
Reader Comments
Respectful observation: While I fully support the message against terrorism, I hope the pledge doesn't become just another formality. Many government employees already feel overburdened with paperwork. Let's ensure the sentiment translates into real action - like better community policing and youth engagement programs across the state. That would make a bigger difference!
As someone from Himachal, I appreciate this. The state is known for its peaceful vibe - this reinforces that identity. But the real challenge is reaching the youth in remote areas. Are there plans to include schools and colleges in this? If not, it should be considered. The pledge text being in both Hindi and English is a good start for wider reach.
I've visited Himachal twice, and the sense of community there is genuinely special. Seeing official steps to protect that harmony is heartening. A single day of observance won't solve everything, but it keeps the conversation alive. The world needs more of this approach - starting from grassroots commitment.
I appreciate the intent, but let's be honest - how many of these pledge ceremonies actually change anything? Every year we do this, yet instances of radicalization still occur. We need more than symbolic acts. Invest in education, conflict resolution programs, and mental health support for vulnerable youth. That's how we truly discourage terrorism.
Proud to see my state taking this step. The Armsdale Ground ceremony at Shimla Secretariat will be a unifying moment for employees. I hope this message reaches every corner of Himachal - from Dharamshala to Kinnaur. Jai Hind! 🇮🇳
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