New Arunachal Governor describes himself as first servant of people

After taking oath as the new governor of Arunachal Pradesh on Wednesday, Lt. Gen. (retired) Nirbhay Sharma described himself as the first servant of the people.

He said that his endeavour would be to take forward the "dream legacy" of his predecessor General (retired) J.J. Singh.

Earlier, he was briefed about the state's affairs by Chief Minister Nabam Tuki and his cabinet colleagues, Speaker Wanglin Lowangdong, Chief Secretary Harkishan and Director General of Police K.K. Maheshwari.

He praised the former army chief for leaving his stamp on the state during his five-and-a-half-year gubernatorial tenure.

"The first ray of the sun kisses Arunachal and the people rise first when the rest of India is asleep. This lead has to be maintained and gained with lot of hard work collectively," he said.

"Arunachal is a happening state, huge developments are taking place and many more are in the pipeline. The need of the hour is dedicated work," he added, and hoped Arunchalees would rise to the occasion to

achieve the goal.

Reminded of the 'Team Arunachal spirit', conceived and promoted by his predecessor, he quipped "That's the only mantra for success".

"I spoke to General J.J. Singh on Wednesday morning and we recalled our golden days during the National Defence Academy days as gentlemen cadets," Lt. Gen. Sharma said.

"I am apprised of the state and assure the people to be always available to them for their greater welfare", said Sharma, one of the most distinguished and decorated field commanders of the Indian Army.

Sharma on his arrival here Tuesday had said the word 'Arunachal' is self-explanatory about the enchanting state and its beautiful people for whom he had lot of love.

Earlier, Guwahati High Court Chief Justice A K Goel administered oath of office to Lt. Gen. (retired) Sharma at an impressive function in the Darbar Hall of Raj Bhawan here.

Chief Minister Tuki, his cabinet colleagues, the speaker, former chief ministers Gegong Apang and Jarbom Gamlin, Member of Parliament Takam Sanjoy, senior government officers and members of the civil society were present on the occasion.

Lt. Gen. Sharma takes charge as the 15th Governor of Arunachal Pradesh.

He is the third retired army officer to do so after General (retired) J.J. Singh and Lt.Gen. (retired) S.K. Sinha.