M Srinivasa Rao Nellore

Assertingthat education is the ultimate key to national progress, Nellore District Collector Himanshu Shukla stated that the complete eradication of poverty is achievable only through widespread literacy and quality education.

Addressing the 138th birth anniversary celebrations of Bharat Ratna Maulana Abul Kalam Azad organized by the District Minority Welfare Department at Shankar Hall in the Collectorate on Wednesday, Collector Shukla attended as the chief guest.

He emphasized that education serves as a powerful equalizer capable of dismantling long-standing socio-economic barriers, caste divisions, and religious disparities within society. He urged that economic or social disadvantages should never stand as obstacles to acquiring knowledge.

Paying glowing tributes, the Collector recalled the extraordinary services of Maulana Abul Kalam Azad, independent India’s first Education Minister.

He lauded Azad’s multi-faceted contributions as a freedom fighter, visionary educationist, poet, writer, and journalist, noting that his legacy continues to inspire generations. He expressed pride that Azad’s birth anniversary is celebrated nationwide as National Education Day and state-wide as Minority Welfare Day.

Shukla further observed that educated Indians are making notable contributions globally, continually enhancing the nation’s international repute.

Earlier, dignitaries paid floral tributes to Maulana Azad’s portrait. District Minority Welfare Officer Nirmala Devi, District Co-operative Officer Gurrappa, Waqf Board inspectors, and other district officials actively participated in the commemorative event, reaffirming their commitment to promoting educational opportunities across all communities.