Shimla (Himachal Pradesh) [India], April 22 (ANI): Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu on Tuesday emphasised unwavering determination and persistent hard work as the foundational pillars of success.

Speaking at the event titled 'Vyavastha Parivartan Ek Sankalp - Aagaz Naye Yug Ka' organised by the National Students' Union of India (NSUI) at Himachal Pradesh University in Shimla, Sukhu shared motivational insights with the student community.

Addressing the gathering, the Chief Minister said that students at HPU possess immense self-confidence and are fully capable of achieving great heights. He encouraged the youth to stay committed to their aspirations and work diligently towards them.

Reflecting on his political journey, Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu shared that he was now serving as the Chief Minister after a prolonged struggle, unlike others who have frequently won elections over the past three decades.

'Eleven of our MLAs have emerged from the NSUI. Today, I am leading the state government, not through privilege, but because the people placed their trust in me,' he remarked, according to the release.

Recalling his student days, the Chief Minister said, 'It was 40 years ago that I got admission to this university. Every time I return to this auditorium, I am filled with a deep sense of belonging. None of my family members were in politics. We were four siblings and my mother always worried about my future.'

He said that setbacks were part of life, but stressed that challenges should never deter one's spirit. 'Success follows those who persevere,' he said. He said that BJP National President Jagat Prakash Nadda, too, was once a student of HPU and the alumni of the university have demonstrated their talent across the country.

He said that diversity in education plays a pivotal role in the development of students.

He stated that the present state government has implemented significant reforms in education and healthcare, and the positive impact of the programmes and policies initiated by the government is now visible in the lives of the people. He said that the government has adopted 6,000 orphaned children as 'Children of the State' and was also financing the education of 23,000 children of widows and single mothers in the state.

Sukhu said that 'though some of our decisions may appear harsh today, future generations will surely benefit from them'. The support of youth was vital in this journey of transformation, he said.

He also shared that by taking strict measures against corruption, the government has managed to generate additional revenue of Rs 3,000 crore, which is now being directed towards the welfare of the underprivileged.

The event saw cultural performances by students and a special musical performance by Indian Idol fame Neha Dixit. . (ANI)