Ranchi: The Jharkhand Assembly marked its 25th year on Saturday with a ceremony that brought together the Governor, the Chief Minister, the Leader of the Opposition, legislators and former members. The event highlighted the institution’s journey and also reminded the gathering of the challenges that continue to shape the state.
Governor Santosh Kumar Gangwar, Chief Minister Hemant Soren and Speaker Rabindranath Mahato opened the programme by lighting the ceremonial lamp. The Chief Minister described the day as a moment for reflection. He said that despite the formation of a separate state and 25 years of governance, Jharkhand still faced serious issues involving poverty, malnutrition, backwardness and limited access to education and justice. He added that the state continued to remain at the lowest level on several indicators and that the government had committed itself to strengthening economic, educational and social capacities in every district.
He paid tribute to the late Shibu Soren and described him as the symbol of Jharkhand’s spirit, struggle and self-respect. He said the movement led by him shaped the identity and aspirations of the state. The Chief Minister added that the government had expanded rights-based programmes such as the right-to-service framework to make public services more transparent and accessible.
The Leader of the Opposition, Babulal Marandi, offered a firm response during his address. He said that progress in Jharkhand depended on reliable health services, quality education and a predictable law and order situation. Without these, he warned, investment and growth would remain affected. Referring to the Chief Minister’s observation that Jharkhand could become a developed state by 2050, he said such goals would remain out of reach unless the government carried out reforms with urgency and impartiality.
The silver jubilee ceremony included a series of recognitions for public service. Dhanbad MLA Raj Sinha received the Outstanding Legislator Award for 2025. He became the twenty-first legislator to receive this honour and announced that he would donate the prize money to a blind school in his constituency. Six Assembly employees were also recognised for exemplary service. Two publications, one documenting the legislative journey and another carrying biographies of members, were released during the programme.
Security forces were honoured for their contributions. Assistant Commandant Shivam Kumar of the Sashastra Seema Bal received an award for his role in a major anti-insurgency operation during his posting with the 32nd Battalion. He had previously received a presidential gallantry citation for the same operation. The families of fifteen soldiers and police personnel who died in the line of duty were also honoured and the hall grew noticeably quiet during this part of the ceremony.
Sportspersons, writers and social workers were also recognised. Archers Goldy Mishra and Amit Modak received awards for achievements in their fields. Social workers Diwakar Anand and Deeksha Kumari and writer Dr. Mayank Murari were honoured for their contributions to society and literature.
The Assembly’s twenty-five-year milestone served both as a commemoration and a reminder. The presence of leaders from across the political spectrum reflected the institution’s continuity, while the speeches drew attention to the enduring gaps in development and governance. As Jharkhand begins its twenty-sixth legislative year, the message that emerged clearly was the need for stronger public services, improved administrative efficiency and a development vision that reaches every citizen.
