CM Dhami Inaugurates Diamond Jubilee of Sainik School Ghorakhal, Lauds NDA Record and Defence Minister’s Trophy Win
Sainik School Ghorakhal Has Given the Nation Disciplined and Patriotic Youth for Decades: CM Dhami
Nainital (Bhowali): Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami on Friday said that Sainik School Ghorakhal has created a glorious legacy by consistently providing the nation with youth imbued with discipline, dedication, and unwavering patriotism. He made these remarks while formally inaugurating the Diamond Jubilee celebrations of Sainik School Ghorakhal in Bhawali, Nainital district.
Addressing the gathering, the Chief Minister extended a warm welcome to all distinguished guests, teachers, parents, and students present on the occasion. He prayed for a bright future for the cadets and urged them to bring pride to the nation, the state, their teachers, and their families by excelling in every field.
Calling Sainik School Ghorakhal one of the most prestigious institutions in the country, the Chief Minister said that he had heard about its excellence since childhood. “This institution has, for decades, prepared outstanding military officers and responsible citizens with the highest standards of discipline and character. Its contribution to nation-building is unparalleled,” he said.
The Chief Minister emphasized that Sainik School education goes far beyond textbooks. “This school is not just about academic learning; it is a premier institution for personality, leadership, and character development. It instills values that shape students into disciplined human beings, ideal officers, and responsible citizens,” he noted.
Congratulating the cadets and faculty, CM Dhami lauded the school’s historic achievement of securing the highest number of selections in the National Defence Academy (NDA) and winning the Defence Minister’s Trophy for the tenth consecutive time. He said that this remarkable accomplishment reflects the dedication, discipline, and unwavering resolve of the cadets, teachers, and leadership of Sainik School Ghorakhal.
He said that students truly realize the leadership qualities, courage, and sense of responsibility developed at this institution only after they leave it—a fact repeatedly affirmed by alumni who have risen to senior positions in the armed forces. “The spirit embedded in the soil of Ghorakhal sets this school apart and prepares its students to serve as exceptional officers in the Army, Navy, and Air Force,” he added.
Describing Uttarakhand as not only the Devbhoomi but also the Veerbhoomi, the Chief Minister said that countless brave soldiers from the state have made supreme sacrifices in the service of the nation. Even today, a large number of soldiers from Uttarakhand are safeguarding the country’s borders.
Calling himself fortunate to be the son of a soldier, CM Dhami said that he understands firsthand the values of discipline, national service, and sacrifice instilled in military families. He reminded the cadets that the uniform they wear is not merely a piece of cloth, but a symbol of honor, discipline, and commitment, which will empower them to face every challenge in life.
Highlighting initiatives taken under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the Chief Minister said that significant steps have been taken to strengthen the armed forces and Sainik Schools. He noted that under the New Education Policy, existing Sainik Schools are being expanded and new ones are being established. Increased defense budgets have led to unprecedented modernization of the armed forces, transforming India from a major defense importer into a leading exporter of advanced defense equipment.
He also said that the Prime Minister fulfilled a long-pending demand of ex-servicemen by implementing the historic ‘One Rank One Pension’ scheme, thereby safeguarding their dignity and financial security.
Reiterating the Uttarakhand government’s commitment to soldiers, martyrs, and their families, CM Dhami said that several landmark decisions have been taken, including a five-fold increase in ex-gratia assistance for martyrs’ families, government jobs for one dependent of a martyr, and multiple concessions for ex-servicemen. He added that the lump-sum and annual honorarium for gallantry award recipients—from Param Vir Chakra to Mention in Despatches—has been significantly enhanced. A grand military memorial dedicated to the state’s martyrs is also nearing completion and will be inaugurated soon.
Advising the cadets as a mentor, the Chief Minister urged them to pursue their goals with unwavering determination. “Once you set a resolution in life, work towards it wholeheartedly, without doubt or hesitation. When resolve is firm, success becomes inevitable,” he said.
The Chief Minister also congratulated Group Captain Vijay Singh, Principal of Sainik School Ghorakhal, and his entire team for maintaining high academic and disciplinary standards at the institution.
During the ceremony, students from the Best Junior House, Best Senior House, C House, and other categories were felicitated for their achievements.
The event was attended by MLA Nainital Sarita Arya, MLA Ram Singh Kaira, Block Pramukh Dr. Harish Bisht, Divisional Commissioner Deepak Rawat, Inspector General Riddhim Agarwal, District Magistrate Lalit Mohan Rayal, Senior Superintendent of Police Dr. Manjunath T.C., along with students, parents, and other dignitaries.
