The 68th Republic day was today celebrated with great patriotic fervor in district Udhampur.The main function was held in the premises of Government Degree College, Udhampur where Deputy Chief Minister, Dr. Nirmal Singh was the chief guest.Extending Republic Day felicitations to the people, the Dy CM recalled the contribution of many prominent leaders in the freedom struggle and their contribution in framing the Constitution of the country.The Dy CM also commemorated the sacrifices of the soldiers for the country and the nation. He said it is the duty of every citizen especially the youth to make the Jammu and Kashmir proud by maintaining peace and exhibiting unity in diversity. He said Jammu and Kashmir is a microcosm of unity in diversity and it is known for its glorious traditions of amity and tolerance.Highlighting the achievements of the Government in different fields, Dr Singh said the Government is committed to develop Jammu region as an independent tourist destination. He also enumerated some of the major projects underway in district Udhampur like Devika-Tawi Rejuvenation Plan, Chenani-Nashri tunnel project, development of Sudh-Mahadev and Seojdhar as tourist destinations, International Yoga Centre at Mantalai etc.
Dr Singh said the present government is fully committed for the overall round development of the state.Earlier, the Republic Day function started with Shehnai Vaadan at DC Complex and Town Hall Udhampur followed by unfurling of national flag and taking of salute at an impressive march past by the Dy CM.Around 39 contingents from JKP, Forest Protection Force, NCC and children of various educational institutions participated in the march past.MLA, Udhampur, Pawan Kumar Gupta, MLA Chenani, Dina Nath Bhagat, Director SKPA Rajesh Kumar, District Development Commissioner, Udhampur, Niraj Kumar, SSP Udhampur, Shailendra Mishra, senior civil, police, Air Force and CRPF officers were present on the occasion.Various cultural programmes reflecting patriotism and rich culture were also presented by the students. The main attraction of the programme was the famous Kud dance presented by Khemraj and party.At Ramnagar, SDM Anshul Garg hoisted the national flag and greeted the people. Various cultural programmes were also presented by the students on the occasion.Similar celebrations were also observed at Majalta, Dudu-Basantgarh and in some other areas of the district.