Shimla : The Odisha media delegation, led by PIB Bhubaneswar called on the Governor of Himachal Pradesh, Shri Kavinder Gupta, at Lok Bhavan, Shimla today. The delegation shared its experiences of the tour, with discussions focusing on cultural exchange, development initiatives and the role of media in fostering national integration.
Interacting with the delegation, the Governor said such exposure visits embody the spirit of “Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat” by strengthening mutual understanding among states. Highlighting India’s rich linguistic and cultural diversity, he noted that unity remains the country’s greatest strength. He also underlined the State’s efforts in improving connectivity in remote and border areas. Emphasising sustainable development, he called for promotion of local products, medicinal plant cultivation, natural farming and skill development of youth. The Governor urged media professionals to play a constructive role in highlighting positive initiatives of the Government.
Earlier, the delegation visited the Army Training Command (ARTRAC) at Annandale, where the Senior Officers briefed members on its role and mandate. The team was informed that ARTRAC, established in October 1991, is the apex training command of the Indian Army responsible for training manpower across commands. Over the years, it has expanded from two training establishments to 34 institutions and now oversees training policy, doctrinal development and performance evaluation. Nearly 50,000 personnel, including foreign officers and soldiers, are trained annually under its aegis.
Highlighting the changing nature of warfare, the Officers stressed the need for technological adaptation. They noted that ARTRAC collaborates with premier institutions such as IITs, the Indian Institute of Science and industry partners to integrate indigenous technologies into training and operations. Describing media as a key element in modern warfare, they termed it a “battle of narratives and perception” and emphasised the importance of greater synergy between the armed forces and the media.
The delegation also attended a wreath-laying ceremony marking the rededication of the renovated Shradhanjali Sthal at the Army Heritage Museum. The ceremony was led by Lt. Gen. Devendra Sharma, PVSM, AVSM, SM, General Officer Commanding-in-Chief, ARTRAC. A 52-foot-high National Flag was dedicated on the occasion, symbolising national unity, pride and the supreme sacrifice of soldiers. Military personnel, ex-servicemen and NCC cadets paid homage to the fallen heroes. The delegation also visited the Army heritage museum.
Shri Manoj Kumar Jali, Deputy Director, and Shri Swadhin Shakti Prasad, Media & Communication Officer, PIB Bhubaneswar and Shri Sanjiv Sharma, Assistant Director, PIB Shimla accompanied the delegation of senior journalists.