Independence Day celebrated with patriotic fervour across Jammu region

Advisor R R Bhatnagar saluting Tricolour at MA Stadium.
Advisor R R Bhatnagar saluting Tricolour at MA Stadium.

Advisor unfurls Tricolour at Jammu, DDC Chairpersons at Distt Hqrs

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Aug 16: In a vibrant display of national pride, the Jammu division marked the 78th Independence Day with spirited celebrations in all the districts. From colourful parades and flag-hoisting ceremonies to cultural performances and community gatherings, the day was filled with a palpable sense of unity and patriotism, reflecting the deep-rooted commitment to the nation’s freedom and progress.
Paying tribute to freedom fighters and martyrs who made the supreme sacrifice for the independence, Advisor to Lieutenant Governor, Rajeev Rai Bhatnagar hoisted the National Flag in M A Stadium.

DDC Reasi Chairman inspecting Independence Day parade.
DDC Reasi Chairman inspecting Independence Day parade.

He inspected the parade and took the salute from the contingents of JKP, JKAP, SSB, IRP, Women Contingent, Forest Protection Force, Fire & Emergency Services, NCC and various several school contingents, Brass & Pipe Bands and Band Troops (Girl & Boys) of different schools.
An impressive display of dance performances showcasing the history and heritage of Jammu and Kashmir and celebrating the spirit of unity in diversity and national integration were also presented on the occasion.
Speaking on the occasion, the Advisor said that J&K is witnessing the rise of a new era in the last five years and has undertaken a journey towards peace, progress, harmony, prosperity and development. He underscored that Jammu and Kashmir is rapidly moving towards comprehensive development in all sectors of life and emphasised that the region is evolving into a realm free from fear and corruption.
Later, winners of National Anthem Singing competition were also felicitated by the Advisor. The competition was conducted by information Department in above 18, below 18 and group category.
MP Jammu-Rajouri Jugal Kishore Sharma, DDC Chairman Bharat Bhushan, Divisional Commissioner Ramesh Kumar, ADGP Jammu Anand Jain, Deputy Commissioner Jammu Sachin Kumar Vaishya, Commissioner JMC Rahul Yadav along with Judges, ex-PRI members, senior officers from civil and security forces and former Legislators were present on the occasion

DDC Kishtwar Chairperson inspecting Independence Day parade.
DDC Kishtwar Chairperson inspecting Independence Day parade.

KATHUA: The main function was held at Sports Stadium where DDC Chairman Col (Retd) Mahan Singh hoisted the National Flag and took salute from mega parade comprising of 46 contingents drawn from District Police, Police Training School, IRP, NCC boys and Girls, Bands and tiny platoons from various Government and private schools.
In his address, the DDC Chairman recalled the sacrifices made by freedom fighters to secure independence for the country. He commemorated all the brave soldiers and policemen who laid down their lives while fighting for the nation. He appealed to the citizens to serve the nation with devotion, honesty and truthfulness.
The DDC Chairperson highlighted India’s growing global influence, noting its steadfast progress across all sectors. He emphasized that under the vision of Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, India is advancing towards becoming a ‘Viksit Bharat,’ fostering a renewed spirit of national integration to achieve new heights.
The DDC Chairman lauded the efforts of district administration who he said “toiling hard and working in close coordination with PRIs to realize the objective of sustainable and all-round development”. The DDC Chairperson also gave away prizes and trophies to the participating performers, outstanding achievers and competition winners of DIPR J&K.
DC Kathua Rakesh Minhas, SSP Anayat Ali Chaudhary, DDC Members, Additional Deputy Commissioner, Ranjit Singh, CPO Ranjit Thakur, ACD Akhil Sadotra, ACR, Vishav Partap Singh, Tehsildar, District Officers, prominent citizens, Ex Servicemen were present on the occasion.
DODA: The main event took place at the Sports Stadium where District Development Council (DDC) Chairman, Dhananter Singh Kotwal, hoisted the Tri-color amidst spirited celebrations. Following the flag hoisting, he inspected the parade and took the salute from JK Police, IR 5th Battalion, CRPF 76th Battalion, FPF, Home Guards, NCC, and schoolchildren.
The event was attended by several dignitaries, including Vice Chairperson DDC Doda, Sangeeta Rani Bhagat, Deputy Commissioner Doda, Harvinder Singh, SSP Doda, Javid Iqbal, ADDC Doda, Pran Singh, district officers and other distinguished figures from the civil and police departments.
In his address, DDC Chairman emphasized the significance of Independence Day as a tribute to the countless freedom fighters who sacrificed their lives for India’s freedom. He highlighted the importance of unity in diversity and reaffirmed the district’s commitment to these principles.
Kotwal assured that ongoing mega projects, including further development of GMC Doda, would be completed on time. He also mentioned that the district is emerging as a tourism hub, with several road connectivity projects underway, including the Chamba Road.
Further, DDC Chairman highlighted the Government’s efforts to enhance sports infrastructure in the district, announcing the sanctioning of Rs 3 crore for the construction of three new stadiums by the UT Government. He also discussed the upcoming improvements to the infrastructure and facilities for the famous Kailash Yatra. Moreover, he praised the district administration’s initiatives to spread awareness about government-sponsored schemes for unemployed youth and emphasized that all eligible individuals in the district are receiving benefits under the PMAY scheme.
RAMBAN: The Independence Day was celebrated with great enthusiasm and patriotic fervor at the District Police Lines (DPL) where District Development Council Chairperson, Dr. Shamshad Shan, hoisted the Tricolor and took the salute from the March Past.
Deputy Commissioner, Baseer-Ul-Haq Chaudhary, SSP, Anuj Kumar, ADDC Roshan Lal, ADC Varunjeet Singh Charak, DPO ICDS Jahangir Hashmi, senior officers of Civil and Police administration, and prominent citizens attended the function. Vice-Chairperson DDC, Ramban, Rabia Beigh was the guest of honour and the DDC Councillors were key guests on the occasion.
In her address, Dr Shamshad Shan paid tribute to the freedom fighters and martyrs who sacrificed their lives for Independence. She emphasized the importance of unity, integrity, patriotism, and encouraged the youth to contribute to the nation’s progress.
The DDC Chairperson gave a brief account of the mega developmental projects completed in the district during the previous year and sanctioned projects for the current year. The Chairperson also listed the achievements made by the different departments under different schemes.
She further said that the fight against drugs is a fight for our future. “I’m concerned that the number of individuals seeking treatment for drug de-addiction in Ramban has increased from 22 last year to 122 this year. We need to intensify our efforts under the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan to create a drug-free society and support those struggling with addiction”,  the DDC Chairperson added.
DC Ramban Baseer-Ul-Haq Chaudhary, while wishing the Ramban Public on 78th Independence Day, urged to remember the sacrifices of freedom fighters and martyrs. On the occasion, a colourful cultural programme based on patriotism was also presented by the students of various schools and local artists which enthralled the audience.
RAJOURI: The main function was organized at DPL ground where the chief guest, District Development Council Chairman, Naseem Liyaqat unfurled the National Flag and took the salute to the march past in the presence of Deputy Commissioner Rajouri, Om Prakash Bhagat.
The contingents of JKAP, JK Executive Police, JK Police Band, CRPF, JK FPF, and SPO, NCC and contingents of different schools participated in the march past while DySP Naveed Ahmed Qazi commanded the parade.
Speaking on the occasion, the Chairman of District Development Council Rajouri highlighted the numerous developmental strides taken in the district. He also underscored the proactive measures in combating drug abuse, with the establishment of a Drug De-Addiction Centre and an Addiction Treatment Facility.
He assured that all works are being closely monitored to maintain transparency and efficiency. In his closing remarks, he reiterated the unwavering commitment of the district to uphold the spirit of brotherhood and unity, which has been the cornerstone of progress of the Rajouri district. He called upon all citizens to work together towards the collective goal of a prosperous and harmonious district.
Prominent who were present on the occasion were District and Session Judge, RN Wattal; DIG Rajouri-Poonch Range, Tijender Singh; SSP, Randeep Kumar; 2nd IC 72 Bn CRPF, Vivek Sakseena; ADDC, Dr Raj Kumar Thapa; Additional District and Session Judge, Mehmood Ahmed Chowdhary; DDC Member Budhal Old, Shazia Kouser; DDC Member Darhal, Iqbal Malik; ADC Rajouri, Rajeev Kumar Khajuria; Principal GMC, Amar Jeet Singh.
UDHAMPUR: The main function was held at Government PG Degree College, Boys wherein District Development Council Chairman, Lal Chand was the chief guest, who hoisted the National Flag and took salute from an impressive march past of 30 contingents drawn from J&K Police, SKPA, NCC and other Civil troups besides Police Band, took part in this national function.
DDC Vice Chairperson, Juhi Manhas Pathania, DIG Udhampur – Reasi Range Rayees Mohammad Bhat, Deputy Commissioner, Udhampur Saloni Rai, Senior Superintendent of Police, Joginder Singh, Additional District Development Commissioner, Rajinder Singh, Additional Deputy Commissioner, Joginder Singh Jasrotia, DDCs, Senior officers from District Administration, Police, Indian Army,  Air Force, CRPF, ITBP and  BSF besides  prominent citizens of the district were present.
While extending his heartiest greetings to everyone, the DDC Chairperson said that this is a day of great significance, a day that reminds us of the struggles and sacrifices of our forefathers who bravely fought against colonial rule to gift us the precious treasure of freedom.
He added that Independence Day is a time to remember their bravery and dedication. Because of their relentless efforts, we enjoy the priceless gift of freedom and sovereignty. He said that Udhampur District is also reaping fruits of development as a number of major development projects/schemes are at the verge of completion. The completion of these projects/schemes will ensure the overall development of the district and will also change the prospective of the people towards life and prosperity.
Various scintillating cultural programmes reflecting patriotism and rich cultural and theme based were also presented by the students of educational institutions which highly enthralled the audience.
POONCH: The Independence Day was celebrated with great enthusiasm, fervor and national spirit at Sports Stadium wherein District Development Council Chairperson, Tazeem Akhter hoisted the National Flag and took salute.
Guard of honour was presented by JK Police which was followed by March past of contingents of JKP, CRPF, JKAP, NCC, J&K Home Guards, J&K Police QRT Commando, J&K Police Band and various Educational Institutions of the district.
Vice Chairperson DDC Poonch Ashfaq Ahmed, Deputy Commissioner Poonch Yasin M. Choudhary, Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Yougal Manhas, DDC Members, ADDC Sandesh Kumar Sharma, ADC Tahir Mustafa Malik, PO ICDS Khalid Hussain Wafa, ACR, ACD, District Social Welfare Officer Wakeel Ahmed Batt besides other officers from Civil, Police, Judiciary, Ex Legislators, prominent citizens, social workers, political activists, large number of men, women and children were present on the occasion.
Speaking on the occasion, the DDC Chairperson highlighted the sacrifices of brave freedom fighters in achieving Independence. She stated that it is the most significant day in the history of India.  She also highlighted the success of “Har Ghar Tiranga” campaign.
She counted numerous ongoing and proposed developmental projects in the district. She added that under the district capex budget, 3150 works have been allotted, out of which 113 works were completed and the remaining are in Progress.
During the celebrations, various cultural items based on the theme of nationalism and integrity were presented by the students of degree College/Schools and other Cultural groups of the district.
SAMBA: The Independence Day was celebrated with great enthusiasm and patriotic fervor at Rani Suchet Singh Stadium, Samba where District Development Council (DDC) Chairman, Keshav Dutt Sharma, hoisted the National Flag, followed by a ceremonial salute to the parade commander and the participating contingents.
In his address, DDC Chairman highlighted the invaluable contributions of freedom fighters like Mahatma Gandhi and Subhas Chandra Bose. He emphasized the sacrifices made by these leaders in the pursuit of India’s independence and urged everyone to honor their legacy by contributing to the nation’s development.
The parade at the event featured contingents from various forces, including the Police, IRP, JKAP, CISF, Ex-Servicemen, Home Guard, JKP Band, JK Scouts & Guides, Army Piper, NCC and students from different schools across district Samba. Adding to the festive atmosphere, students from various schools presented colorful cultural programs, including patriotic songs and local tunes that resonated with the audience and received widespread acclaim.
Deputy Commissioner Samba, Abhishek Sharma also acknowledged the dedication of various departments and felicitated the best-performing officials for their outstanding contributions.
The Independence Day celebration was graced by several dignitaries, including SSP Samba Vinay Sharma, ADDC Champa Devi, ADC Suresh Sharma, ACR, GM DIC, CPO, CEO, Heads of Departments from various line departments, students, media persons, and officers from other security agencies.
KISHTWAR: Amid mild rain showers, the Independence Day was celebrated across the district Kishtwar with great enthusiasm. The main function was held in the premises at Chowgan Ground.
Chairperson District Development Council Kishtwar Pooja Thakur, who was chief guest on the occasion, accompanied by DC Kishtwar Dr Devansh Yadav and SSP Kishtwar Abdul Qayoom hoisted the Tricolor and took salute of march past. The parade was commanded by DySP Headquarter Dr Ishan Gupta. In the event, cultural and patriotic presentations were also performed by school Students.
Speaking on the occasion, DDC Chairperson Kishtwar extended heartiest greetings to the people of the Kishtwar on the auspicious occasion of national importance and highlighted the sacrifices of the frontline leaders and heroes during freedom struggle.
She listed the achievements made in the developmental sector in the district. She sought the cooperation of the people of Kishtwar in the implementation of the various schemes besides emphasised upon the officers to adopt proactive and collaborative approach in giving impetus to the developmental tempo of the region.
REASI: The main celebration took place at the General Zorawar Singh Sports Stadium where DDC Chairman, Saraf Singh Nag, hoisted the National Flag and took salute to the march past. Impressive contingents from JK Police, CRPF, Boys and Girls wings of NCC battalions, along with band squads of the Police, showcased a remarkable Parade.
Remembering the contribution of freedom fighters, DDC Chairperson said, “we are able to celebrate this day due to their struggles”. He also highlighted the post-independence challenges the country faced and said, “we can’t forget the brave soldiers who sacrificed their life to safeguard the sovereignty and integrity of the country”, adding “this day also offers us an opportunity to pay our tribute and recall their contribution in building this great nation”.
The DDC Chairperson also listed the flagship schemes and numerous developmental projects completed and undertaken in the Reasi district by the Government to create a strong infrastructure base. He said the administration is trying its best to lead Reasi district on the glorious path of development and prosperity.
The event featured a vibrant cultural program showcasing India’s rich cultural heritage, presented by students from various participating institutions.
District Development Commissioner Reasi Vishesh Mahajan, SSP Mohita Sharma, CO IRP 1st Battalion Anita Sharma, Principal STC Talwara Jameel Ahmed, ADC Kulbhushan Khajuria, PO Poshan Mohammad Anwar Banday, ACP Pardeep Kumar, CEO, CAO, XENs, DIO (Info) and other senior district officers and officials were present on the occasion.
District Bar Association, Kathua celebrated Independence Day by unfurling Tricolour Flag under the leadership of Advocate Ajat Shatru Sharma President District Bar Association Kathua.