Minister of State for Education, Technical Education, Culture, Tourism, Department of Horticulture, Floriculture and Parks Priya Sethi today took part in the patriotic songs festival organised by Viraj Kala Kendra (VKK) in connection with the Independence Day celebrations here at K.L Sehgal Hall.The patriotic song festival where the participants were mostly Teachers of rural and urban schools of Jammu district was organised to remember and honour the sacrifices made by women in India’s freedom struggle and celebrate the success of female athletes who brought laurels to the nation at Rio Olympics 2016.Priya Sethi, while addressing the gathering highlighted the contribution of women at various levels of social set up. She asserted that strengthening and empowerment of women folk will ultimately lead to strengthening of nation. “Women play a very important role in the development of society- at the forefront as well as in the four walls of her house and to strengthen them is to strengthen our society and nation as a whole” she asserted.Calling upon the people to understand their responsibilities towards nation, she said “While enjoying fruits of freedom we should not forget our duty towards the country”. “Independence isn’t just freedom, but also means acceptance of responsibilities towards our nation.
Every citizen needs to understand this fact and do our part- by raising our voice in front of injustice, by not accepting and supporting corrupt practices and by taking active part in preservation of country’s resources and environment”.Addressing the educators, she asked them to take this message and pass it on to the children and youth.The Minister said that government is committed towards growth of the state with special attention on education, tourism, culture and is working consistently to meet this goal. With these diligent efforts, Jammu now has a functional IIT and IIM is scheduled come up soon. The government is also working to put Jammu on the state’s tourist map alongside Kashmir.To educate our children about the rich cultural heritage of the state, the government has directed for cultural cells to be establishment in every government school. This will help reinforce moral values in children and preserve the culture, the Minister added.Priya Sethi also appreciated the contribution of VKK for women empowerment, education of slum children and promotion of arts. She said that it is very important to lay focus on the plight of women and children especially those belonging to lower section of the society and events like these help to highlight their issues.The Advisor VKK Rita Jitender and President VKK Rai Bharti thanked the minister for her active contribution towards the social causes.