When the walls of administrative positions, protocol, and formalities break down, a humane face of governance emerges. Such a scene was witnessed once again in the Banianwala area of Dehradun, where Additional Secretary to the Chief Minister, Vice Chairman of the Mussoorie-Dehradun Development Authority (MDDA), and Director General of Information and Public Relations Department, IAS Banshidhar Tiwari, celebrated his birthday not with pomp and grandeur, but with simplicity and compassion among the girls of the Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Residential Girls’ Hostel. This is not a one-day formality, but a tradition he has been quietly observing with simplicity for years.
In this vein, IAS Banshidhar Tiwari, along with his family, spent time with the children at the Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Residential Girls’ Hostel in the Banianwala area of Sahaspur constituency. The children presented songs to welcome the guests, which truly reflected life, hope, and struggle. The atmosphere, filled with applause and smiles amidst the songs, did not feel like a government program, but rather a family celebration. This hostel is a refuge for girls who have started their lives in difficult circumstances. Many of these girls are orphans, some have single parents, and many have come here after escaping situations of begging or scavenging. The repeated visits of a senior IAS officer to these children are not just an event for them, but a reassuring message that society and the system have not forgotten them. It shows that the system stands with them every step of the way.
Upon arriving at the hostel, IAS Banshidhar Tiwari neither gave any formal speech nor maintained the distance of his official position. He sat on the ground with the children, cut the cake with them, distributed gifts, and engaged in informal conversation. He talked to the girls about their studies, interests, and future dreams. This conversation was not a formal question-and-answer session, but a heartfelt interaction.
On this occasion, tree plantation was also carried out on the premises. This was seen not merely as an environmental activity, but as a symbolic message for the future. He said that just as a plant grows over time to provide shade and fruit, similarly, if these girls receive the right education, guidance, and affection, they can become strong leaders who guide society in the right direction.
Speaking to the girls as a guardian figure, Banshidhar Tiwari said that setting goals is extremely important for progress in life. No matter how difficult the circumstances, if self-confidence and honesty are maintained, paths will automatically open up. He encouraged the girls not to limit themselves to merely achieving success, but to become leaders and role models for others. He said that true leadership is that which helps others progress along with oneself.
Those present at the event said that in today’s times, when birthdays are often limited to ostentatious and extravagant celebrations, a senior IAS officer celebrating his birthday every year with orphaned children sends a positive message to society. This initiative not only brings smiles to the children’s faces but also reflects the sensitive approach of the administration. This event was not part of any stage, banner, or publicity campaign, but rather a few hours spent with the children, which will remain memorable in their lives for a long time. This example proves that true administration is one that understands emotions along with files, and true celebration is one in which one’s own happiness is shared to light a ray of hope in someone else’s life
