June 7, 2012
CM touches young hearts
They sang, they danced, received accolades for their results and went back home with a bagful of memories. The felicitation ceremony organized by Chief Minister Ms. Mamata Banerjee for Madhyamik and HS exam toppers touched the hearts of students and parents alike.
Twenty-two toppers of Madhyamik and 23 rank-holders in Higher Secondary examination were given books and laptops by Ms.Mamata Banerjee at Town Hall on Thursday. But more than the felicitation, students were overwhelmed by the Chief Minister's friendly gestures. She urged the toppers to sing, dance and recite poems. Though initially hesitant, Tamaghna Barik performed a brilliant Rabindrasangeet, while Ankita, a rank-holder from Patha Bhavan, recited Rabindranath Tagore's 'Nirjharer Swapno Bhanga'.
The CM also inspired them with her quotes from Swami Vivekananda. “If there is no problem in life, how can you solve them and move ahead?” she asked. “Never lose heart or be disappointed. Do not feel depressed amidst the challenges that life throws at you. But, work hard to overcome them. Those who have scored good marks in the examination can become an inspiration for the younger students,” added Ms.Mamata Banerjee.
While she felicitated the toppers, the CM did not forget about the young kids accompanying their siblings and gave them chocolates. “This will remain the most memorable day of our lives,” said Bishal Kundu, one of the toppers in the Higher Secondary examination.
Obliging students and parents by posing for their cameras, Ms.Mamata Banerjee assured each student of assistance by the Government in case of financial problems. “There are several scholarship schemes which you all can avail of. Yet, in case of any need, education department officials will take care of the matter,” she said. She also had a piece of advice for Madhyamik rank-holder Shahin Isha – “If you don't eat food, your brain will receive no nourishment. To study, one needs to remain healthy.”
To add to the students' delight, Education Minister Bratya Basu recited a poem by Joy Goswami. Speaking at the programme, Basu said, “Behind your success, there are contributions of many people in this society – from your parents, to the cobblers who mend your shoes to the tailor who has tailored your school uniform. When you grow up and establish yourself in this society, do not forget about them.” Hinting at the braindrain from the state, the Minister said, “I would also ask you to stay back in West Bengal and continue with your work. Some of the most brilliant students have left Bengal earlier. But with the able guidance from Ms.Mamata Banerjee, we are trying to build a state which offers a lot of opportunities in every sector.”
On a parting note, the CM instructed education department officials to ensure railway tickets were reserved for students and their parents who had come from out of station to attend the felicitation ceremony.
