Patriotic fervor grips Jammu Div amid celebration of India’s 75 years of Independence

Panch Pran ceremonies held, Sila-Phalakam dedicated to Martyrs under Mera Desh Mere Maati campaign

JAMMU, August 14: The patriotic spirit grips Jammu Division as iconic events were organised by government departments and educational institutions to celebrate the 75 glorious years of India’s Independence under Azaadi Ka Amrit Mahtsav, besides dedicating Sila-Phalakams to Martyrs and holding of Panch Pran ceremonies to promote Meri Maati Mere Desh campaign.

Doda: To honour the local martyrs, Deputy Commissioner Vishesh Mahajan virtually dedicated the newly raised Sila-Palakams to the people in all Panchayats across the district. The Sila-Palakams (Memorial plaques) have been raised in all the 237 panchayats and at some prominent Amrit Sarovars and Public Places, as a part of ongoing Meri Maati Mera Desh campaign launched by the Government of India.

Huge gathering of zealous PRIs and the general public turned up at the Memorial plaques to show their love, respect, and honour towards their real heros. The families of the martyrs were also honoured at many places, and the Sila-Phalakam was unveiled by them. A PANCH PRAN Pledge was also taken at the established Sila-Phalakam (Memorial plaques) by the PRIs and the participants.

Ramban: Deputy Commissioner, Ramban, Mussarat Islam inaugurated an exhibition of rare photographs capturing the tragedies of Partition.

The Deputy Commissioner was accompanied by President, Municipal Council, Ramban, Sunita Sumbria, and other Councillors

The Deputy Commissioner went around the exhibition displaying pictures and standees that bear witness to the sacrifices made by millions of people in the lead up to the country’s independence.

Urging the youth to relate themselves to the country’s freedom struggle, the Deputy Commissioner paid homage to the martyrs of the national freedom movement, whose sacrifices made it possible for India to get independence on August 15, 1947.

Thanking the people for making the Meri Maati Mera Desh campaign a huge success in the district, he also invited the people to participate in Nation’s 77th Independence Day celebration in large numbers and witness the growth and development.

Meanwhile, as part of the ongoing nationwide campaign ‘ ‘Meri Maati Mera Desh’ under the aegis of Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav,’ the Deputy Commissioner, Ramban, Mussarat Islam alongwith the President, Municipal Council, Ramban, Sunita Sumbria unveiled a Shilaphalakam (Memorial Plaque) at Municipal Council Park Maitra in Ramban, here today.

On the occasion, officers, locals and ex-servicemen after lighting earthen lamps took a pledge of national integrity with soil in their hands.

The programme ended with the National Anthem.

Kishtwar: The first of its Kind, mega Mushaira cum multiCultural concert, was organised in GDC Kishtwar Auditorium. The District Administration, led by Deputy Commissioner Dr. Devansh Yadav IAS, orchestrated this unique initiative as part of the “Meri Matti Mara Desh ” campaign with the noble goal of raising funds for the orphans.

The event served as a poignant prelude to the Independence Day Celebration of 2023.

The concert showcased captivating performances by celebrity singer Rashid Jahangir from Chenab Valley, accompanied by accomplished poets from Kishtwar and various areas of the erstwhile Doda district. These memorable presentations were made possible through the collaborative efforts of the J&K Academy of Art, Culture & Languages (JKAACL).

The program commenced with the lighting of the traditional lamp, followed by the welcome address by the Deputy Commissioner. The Deputy Commissioner highlighted Kishtwar’s rich literary heritage, encompassing iconic figures such as the historical Buddhist Monk Nagsen and the renowned poet of the UT of Jammu and Kashmir, Doolwal Sahib, also known as Janbaz Kishtwari.

Describing the event as a catalyst for nurturing literary and artistic aptitude within the district, he reassured the audience of forthcoming similar occasions in collaboration with the J&K Academy of Art, Culture & Languages (JKAACL).

A grand Tiranga Rally was organised by the Sub Divisional Administration, in conjunction with the Youth Services and Sports Department, Zone Padder, Education Department, District Police and various other departments. This event marked a remarkable celebration of the 76 glorious years of a progressive India, aligned with the spirit of ‘Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav’ and the ‘Meri Maati Mera Desh’ campaign.

The rally, held in Gulabgarh Padder, was a stunning manifestation of national pride and history. The fervent participation of hundreds of enthusiastic youth, school children, staff from various educational institutions alongside esteemed civil society members, public representatives and citizens contributed to the event’s resounding success.

SDM Paddar, Arun Kumar Badyal, DDC member Padder, Hari Krishan, SHO Padder, Vikram Parihar, ZEO Padder, Angrez Singh, and ZPEO Padder, Ram Loki were present on the occasion.

Kathua: In a splendid show of unity and patriotism, multifarious events under the banner of Meri Maati Mera Desh were organised across Kathua District as a prelude to 77th Independence Day celebrations.

The District Administration Kathua led by Deputy Commissioner, Rakesh Minhas took out a massive Tiranga Rally through the streets of Hiranagar sub division which was joined by enthusiastic citizenry with their hearts brimming with pride and patriotism.

Speaking on the occasion, the DC said that the rally stood as a vivid reminder of India’s diversity, resilience, and collective aspirations which will infuse zealous and patriotic vibes amongst the youth and will pave the way for making India a Vishwaguru (Global Leader) in line with Prime Minister’s resolve of Viksit Bharat (Developed India) by 2047.

NSS Unit of GDC Marheen decorated the college building with flags, lights, rangoli and flowers under the aegis of Azadi kaAmrit Mahotsav, and as part of Har Ghar Tiranga campaign. Besides, different events such as Essay Writing, Singing and recitation of poems were also held to mark the occasion.

The students expressed their views on the theme Freedom Struggle and Contribution of the Freedom Fighters and Mera Bharat Mahan which was well lauded by the audience.

NSS unit of GDC Mahanpur organized “ Veeron Ka Vandan” ceremony in which floral tributes were paid to freedom fighters by Principal of the College Dr. Sangeeta Sudan, Staff and students moreover a documentary on the contribution of Bhagat Singh Ji for freedom structure is also shown to the students.

The ‘Selfie with Tiranga’ campaign was also held in the institution in which Principal, Staff and students clicked their selfies with Trianga and uploaded it on the dedicated “Har Ghar Tiranga” portal. The entire activities were conducted under the guidance of Principal of Dr. Sangeeta Sudan.

Nehru Yuva Kendra, Kathua, in coordination with the Education Department, Youth Clubs, and Panchayats organized MMMD programmes at different locations. The main function was organized at Govt. Hr. Sec. School, Nagri in which Asstt. Commandant BSF, 67 Bn, Asstt. Commandant CRPF 121 Bn, Zila Sainik Welfare Officer, Deputy Director, NYK, Principal GHSS Nagri and Tehsildar were present.

The officers paid rich tribute by garlanding the portrait of Martyrs Khatan Hussain, of 10 JAKLI, Raj Kumar Saini of BSF 27Bn, Lnk. Subash Singh of 49 Bn BSF, Ruldu Ram of BSF 44 Bn. The family members of the Martyrs were also honored by garlanding and by presenting mementoes. Besides, a plantation drive was also held where familie of martyrs planted tree saplings in memory of the galiant martyrs.

GDC Kathua organised Veeron Ka Vandan and Har Ghar Tirnaga activity in NSS adopted Panchyat Jarai wherein defence personnel from different villages were honoured with Memento and flags.

Volunteers also distributed National flags in the households of the Panchayat under Har Ghar Tiranga Campaign.

Likewise, Tiranga Rallies, Panch Pran Pledge ceremonies and other events were held across all sub divisions of Kathua district where events were organised by civil and police administration and witnessed overwhelming response of the people.

Rajouri: As part of the “Meri Maati Mera Desh” initiative, District Development Commissioner, Vikas Kundal participated in a solemn Diya Lighting ceremony at the Town Hall in Rajouri.

The event, held to commemorate the sacrifices made during the freedom struggle, was attended by esteemed dignitaries who came together to honor the legacy of India’s fight for independence.

Prominent figures, including President MC Rajouri, Mohd Arief, and Vice President MC Rajouri, Bharat Bushan Vaid, along with councillors – Rajinder Sharma and Pushpinder Gupta, also attended the event. Their participation underlined the shared sentiment of paying homage to the sacrifices that laid the foundation for India’s sovereignty.

Udhampur: District Administration Udhampur organised a mega Tiranga rally from the DC Office Complex .

Deputy Commissioner, Sachin Kumar Vaishya, SSP, Dr Vinod Kumar, Additional Deputy Commissioner, Joginder Singh Jasrotia were among over 2000 officials, Police personnel, civil society members who took part in the rally carrying the National Flags in their hands and chanting patriotic slogans, Bharat Mata ki Jai and Vande Matram.

The rally passed through Slathia Chowk, Court Road, Ramnagar Chowk, Gole market, Matador and culminated at DC Office.

District Development Council Chairperson, Udhampur Lal Chand also joined the Tiranga rally from Slathia Chowk Udhampur.

Later, DC, SSP and other officers paid floral tributes to the Martyrs at Shradhanjali Sthal Udhampur.

SHD Directorate: As a part of the national flagship “Meri Maati Mera Desh” campaign of Govt. of India, Directorate of Sheep Husbandry Jammu, under the Chairmanship of Dr Naseem Javaid Chowdhary, organised a series of activities. Plantation of different species of plants was undertaken as part of Vasudha Vandhan activity in the premises of Directorate of Sheep Husbandry Jammu.

Director, Sheep Husbandry, while addressing the gathering, exhorted all to reaffirm the commitment to uphold the unity, integrity and sovereignty of the nation and to undertake the plantation drive in the departmental lands during the ongoing Monsoon.

Similar functions are being organised by the officers/officials of the department in all the districts of Jammu Division.

A&T Directorate Jammu: Directorate of Accounts & Treasuries, Jammu under the leadership of Principal Secretary, Finance Santosh D. Vaidya, and Director General Accounts & Treasuries,

The Finance Department paid homage to courageous Freedom Fighters, by garlanding the portrait under the slogan “Meri Maati, Mera Desh” who selflessly fought for the Nation’s Independence. The programme was orchestrated by all the staff members at Finance Complex, Muthi Jammu to honour the legacy of brave hearts and to embrace the sense of patriotism among the members. Besides, this to commemorate the 77th year of Independence and celebrate it as Äzadi ka Amrit Mahotsav” under the theme “Meri Maati, Mera Desh Mitti ko Naman, Verron ko Vandan” a plantation drive and cleanliness drive was also organized to keep the complex clean and green.

JKAP-7th Security Battalion: JKAP-7th Security Battalion organized the Panch Pran pledge taking ceremony under the supervision of Suneel Raj CO-JKAP-7th Security Battalion, briefed regarding the event.

Lateron, organized awareness programmes “MERI MAATI, MERA DESH” as well as rally started from APC Channi Jammu upto Main Market, Surya Chowk Channi Jammu. The rally was organized with an aim to encourage people to bring the “Azaadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav” in the 77th year of India’s independence.

Also paying tribute to the Veers and luminaries, who gave up their today for our tomorrow and had supreme sacrifices for the nation. The idea behind the rallies was to invoke the feeling of patriotism in the hearts of the people and to promote awareness about Azaadi Ka Amrit Mahtsav. In the event Dy. Commandant Sh. Bharat Sharma (SP), Inspr, Mohd Saleem and Inspector Gurdeep Singh among all other Police personnel participated. The event has been highly appreciated by Citizens.

DLSA Reasi: In a glorious display of national pride and unity in diversity and to commemorate India’s remarkable journey of 75 years of Independence, the J&K Legal Services Authority (JKLSA) in association with District Legal Services Authority, Reasi organised a monumental ‘Tiranga Rally’ to pay homage to those who struggled and sacrificed their lives for the future generations. The ‘Tiranga Rally’ was flagged off by Sonia Gupta, Chairman District Legal Services Authority (Also Principal District & Sessions Judge Reasi) . The rally proceeded from District Court Complex Reasi and culminated at Sports Stadium Reasi .

CJM Reasi (Archana Charak), Secretary District Legal Services Authority Reasi (Sunil Kumar), Ld. Munsiff Reasi (Arti Devi), Ld. Additional Special Mobile Magistrate Reasi ( Priyanka Mahajan), Ld. Assistant Public Prosecutor of Reasi ( Ashwani Kumar), President Bar Association Reasi, Other Senior and Junior members of the Bar Association Reasi, Staff Members of both District Court Reasi & District Legal Services Authority Reasi & PLVs were also present.

Carrying Tiranga, the procession filled with patriotic fervour and unity, found its way through the heart of city centre, painting the city with the vibrant hues of the tricolor.

The rally stood as a vivid reminder of India’s diversity, resilience, and collective aspirations. The JKLSA, in tandem with the DLSA, Reasi also extended its gratitude to all the participants, supporters and collaborators who contributed to the resounding success of this historical event.

NSS and NCC Units of Government General Zorawar Singh Memorial Degree College, Reasi organised “Tiranga Rally” under “Har Ghar Tiranga” under the aegis of “Meri Mati Mera Desh” and “Azadi Ka Amrut Mahotsav” in which volunteers from NSS, NCC (Boys & Girls) participated along with staff members of the college including the Principal, Dr. Kulvinder Kour.

“Tiranga Flags” were distributed to the staff members and volunteers and then the rally marched from the college campus to the main gate of the District Hospital, Reasi by chanting the slogans “Meri Maati Mera Desh”, “Vande Mataram”, Bharat Mata Ki Jai”, “Har Ghar Tiranga, Lehrayega” etc.

Speaking on the occasion, the college Principal said that the motive for organizing such a rally was to remember the sacrifices of those brave soldiers who attained martyrdom while performing their national duty and to promote the spirit of nationalism and Patriotism among the young students.

CENTRAL JAIL JAMMU: Tiranga Yatra campaign with series of events i.e Panch Pran Pledge Ceremony and Plantation drive were today organised in Kotbalwal Central Jail Jammu under the “Meri Maati Mera Desh-Mitti Ko Naman, Veero Ka Vandan” campaign.

Tiranga Yatra was organised and attended by Jail staff and CRPF Personnel headed by Veerinder Kumar Bhat, Sr. Superintendent up to adjacent villages. A large gathering from the adjacent villages also participated in the Tiranga Yatra. Flags were distributed among the local inhabitants and those from adjacent villages.

Officers and staff of Prisons Department and CRPF also displayed their love and respect by hoisting and displaying the National Flag in their homes and work places with patriotic fervour and enthusiasm.