JAMMU: Deputy Chief Minister, Surinder Kumar Choudhary today hoisted the National Flag at M.A. Stadium here on the occasion of 80th Independence Day.
The Deputy Chief Minister inspected the parade and took salute from the participating contingents.
Addressing the gathering, the Deputy Chief Minister extended warm greetings to the people of Jammu and Kashmir and the nation on the 80th Independence Day and paid rich tributes to the freedom fighters and martyrs who made the supreme sacrifice for the country’s independence. He recalled the long and historic struggle for freedom and highlighted the sacrifices of countless freedom fighters who fought against colonial rule. He said the Tricolour is a symbol of sacrifices, unity, brotherhood and collective aspiration of every Indian.
The Deputy Chief Minister also paid rich tributes to the Armed Forces, Jammu and Kashmir Police and security forces for their unwavering commitment to safeguarding the nation and maintaining peace and security in Jammu and Kashmir.
Speaking on the development journey of the country, he said India has made remarkable progress since independence and is today among the leading economies of the world. He credited farmers, soldiers, scientists, engineers, entrepreneurs, workers and citizens from all walks of life for contributing to the nation’s progress.
Highlighting Jammu and Kashmir’s role in Nation-building, the Deputy Chief Minister said the Government remains firmly committed to ensuring all-round, balanced and inclusive development across the Union Territory. He said focused attention is being given to roads, bridges, power, water supply, healthcare, education, agriculture, industries and other vital sectors.
The Deputy Chief Minister said strengthening the industrial sector is one of the Government’s priorities and efforts are underway to establish new industries and generate employment opportunities for local youth. He emphasised that the youth of Jammu and Kashmir must receive priority in emerging employment and entrepreneurial opportunities.
On youth empowerment, the Deputy Chief Minister said the Government is working to create opportunities in both government employment and self-employment. He referred to recruitments made in various departments and vacancies referred to the JKSSRB and JKPSC, expressing hope that the recruitment process would be completed at the earliest.
He also highlighted initiatives in education and healthcare, saying that efforts are being made to improve access to quality education and expand healthcare infrastructure and opportunities for medical education in Jammu and Kashmir.
Describing farmers as the backbone of Jammu and Kashmir’s economy, he said the Government is committed to ensuring that farmers prosper through agriculture, horticulture and allied sectors. He stressed the need to provide farmers with better support, modern facilities and opportunities to enhance their income.
Expressing serious concern over drug abuse among youth, the Deputy Chief Minister appealed to young people to stay away from drugs and criminal activities. He said the Government is committed to building a drug-free Jammu and Kashmir and called upon families, educational institutions, civil society and the youth to join the campaign against substance abuse.
He urged the youth to utilise their energy and talent in education, sports, innovation, entrepreneurship and nation-building, saying that the future of Jammu and Kashmir depends largely on the aspirations, determination and constructive participation of its young generation.
The Deputy Chief Minister also emphasised on the importance of protecting the environment. Referring to the increasing incidents of cloudbursts, floods, landslides and other extreme weather events, he called upon citizens to actively participate in afforestation and environmental conservation.
He urged people to give practical meaning to initiatives such as “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam” by not only planting trees but also taking responsibility for their care and survival. He said environmental protection is a collective responsibility and requires active participation from every section of society.
Referring to the recent natural disasters in Jammu and Kashmir, the Deputy Chief Minister said the Government took prompt measures to restore connectivity and provide relief and assistance to affected people. He assured that all possible support would continue to be extended to families and areas affected by recent cloudbursts and floods.
Highlighting Jammu and Kashmir’s rich cultural heritage, he said the Government is committed to showcasing the region’s centuries-old art, culture, traditions and craftsmanship on national and international platforms. He emphasised the need to support local artisans, craftsmen and workers and provide them with greater opportunities.
The Deputy Chief Minister also spoke about the aspirations of the people of the Jammu region and emphasised the need for equitable opportunities and representation for local youth and professionals in different sectors.
He also appealed to the Government of India to fulfil its commitment towards restoring statehood at the earliest.
Calling upon the people to work collectively towards building a peaceful, prosperous and developed Jammu and Kashmir, the Deputy Chief Minister said the Government’s vision is to ensure that every child receives quality education, every farmer gets due value for his or her hard work, every woman feels safe and empowered, and every young person gets an opportunity to realise their dreams.
The celebrations witnessed an impressive display of patriotism and cultural diversity, with students from Government and private schools presenting colourful cultural programmes. The performances reflected the rich cultural heritage of Jammu and Kashmir and conveyed messages of national unity, patriotism and harmony.
The programme was attended by Member of Parliament Lok Sabha Jugal Kishore Sharma; Member of Parliament Rajya Sabha Sat Paul Sharma; MLA, Ramban Arjun Singh Raju; MLA, Gulabgarh, Khurshied Ahmed; MLA, Nagrota, Devyani Rana; Divisional Commissioner, Jammu, Ramesh Kumar; IGP Jammu Zone Bhim Sen Tuti; Deputy Commissioner Jammu; SSP Jammu, and senior officers of civil and police administration.
A large number of people from different walks of life, including students, participated in the celebrations with great enthusiasm and patriotic spirit.
The Deputy Chief Minister also distributed awards among the participants in recognition of their outstanding performances and contribution to the Independence Day celebrations.
