Yogi Adityanath pays tribute to Uttar Pradesh’s first CM Govind Ballabh Pant on his death anniversary

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Saturday, March 7, 2026, paid tribute to the state’s first Chief Minister, the late Govind Ballabh Pant, on his death anniversary.

Mr. Adityanath, in his speech in Lucknow, said that the revolutionary steps taken by the first CM for the reconstruction of the state will always be an inspiration to all.

“Pandit Govind Ballabh Pant’s work is an inspiration to all of us and continues to guide our path. He took several steps during his time for the development and reform of Uttar Pradesh. Pandit Govind Ballabh Pant was born in present-day Uttarakhand, which was then a part of the United Provinces,” he said, offering flowers in front of his statue at Lok Bhavan in UP.

The CM described him as “Mother India’s great son”, a noted freedom fighter, a successful lawyer and an able administrator.

“Responding to the call of the Father of the Nation, Mahatma Gandhi, he left the legal profession and joined the freedom struggle. He was elected Prime Minister of the United Provinces in 1937, when the country was under British rule. Pandit Govind Ballabh Pant is remembered by all as the first Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh. As the Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh, Pant laid the foundation for development and presented a vision that continues to guide the State. Following this vision, Uttar Pradesh has become a major pillar of the Indian economy today,” said Mr. Adityanath.

He further said: “Pant rendered invaluable services to the nation as the Union Home Minister. He also played a significant role in promoting and expanding the use of Hindi as an official language. He was awarded the ‘Bharat Ratna’ in 1957 for his invaluable contribution to the freedom of India and distinguished services to Uttar Pradesh and the nation. The work of Pandit Govind Ballabh Pant continues to guide us even today.”