Indore (Madhya Pradesh): Urban development and housing minister Kailash Vijayvargiya on Sunday lauded the Valmiki community for its outstanding contribution to cleanliness in the city, crediting them for Indore being ranked No 1 in Swachh Survekshan for the eighth consecutive time.
Speaking at a devotional event held on the occasion of Jahar Veer Goga Dev’s birth anniversary, the minister said, “It is due to the dedicated efforts of Valmiki youths and women that Indore has become a national and global symbol of cleanliness.”
The minister was addressing a large gathering at Hansdas Math in Ward No 1, during a special ceremony where all traditional religious flags and staffs (nishans) of the community were worshipped.
Vijayvargiya personally offered prayers to the 70+ nishans present, noting a rise from 40 last year, and expressing pride in being part of the growing devotion.
He said, “Most of the youths serving the nishans this year are symbols of the positive energy we need in our festivals”.
He spoke about the heroism of Goga Dev, calling him an embodiment of divine power and a protector of cows. Citing historical legends, he said Goga Dev had bravely fought against Mahmud of Ghazni, attempting to thwart his invasion of Somnath temple multiple times before achieving martyrdom on the battlefield.
