On the occasion of Teachers' Day, educators in Poonch district celebrated the birth anniversary of Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan with a unique voter awareness Rally. The initiative, aimed at encouraging voter participation in the upcoming Assembly elections, was a befitting tribute to the former President, philosopher, and educator, who was born on this day in 1888.
The rally organised under SVEEP was formally flagged off by District Election Officer (DEO) Vikas Kundal in presence of Chief Education Officer Lal Hussain, from Girls Higher Secondary School Poonch. Hundreds of teachers participated, carrying banners emblazoned with slogans that emphasized the vital role of voting in strengthening democracy.
The march, which passed through the main roads and streets of Poonch, concluded at the District Institute of Education and Trainings (DIET) Poonch. Speaking at the event, DEO Vikas Kundal said, "Teachers are one of the most important components of our society, and on this day, when we honour teachers across the nation, it is inspiring to see them stepping out for democracy.
Today, teachers have led the way, and now it is the responsibility of all sections of society to follow. Everyone should come out and vote in the upcoming Assembly elections to strengthen our democratic fabric."
Dr Radhakrishnan, renowned for his belief in education as the foundation of a strong democracy, is honoured annually on September 5. This year, teachers across the Poonch district extended their role beyond the classroom, using the occasion to mobilize citizens and underscore the importance of casting their vote.
The rally underscored the broader role of educators in shaping not only the minds of future generations but also in nurturing an informed and active electorate. Teachers, often seen as the pillars of society, took up the mantle of civic duty, reminding the public that voting is both a right and a responsibility.
Their efforts highlighted the idea that a vibrant democracy requires the active participation of every citizen, a principle advocated by Dr. Radhakrishnan throughout his life. The rally was attended by Deputy District Election Officer Poonch, Saleem Ahmed, ZEPO Poonch Vijay Kumar, and Officials from District election authorities.