Minister for Jal Shakti, Forest, Ecology & Environment and Tribal Affairs, Javed Ahmed Rana, today hoisted the national flag at Boys Government Degree College, Udhampur, to commemorate celebration of 76th Republic Day.
The Minister inspected the parade and took salute at an impressive march past presented by 32 contingents drawn from District Police, SKPA, ITBP and NCC. Speaking on the occasion, the Minister congratulated the people of the nation and said that Republic Day is a day of celebration of the democratic values enshrined in the Indian Constitution.
“The Constitution of India, which provides justice and equality to all, serves to strengthen the people economically, educationally and socially”, he added. He said that the occasion serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by freedom fighters and the vision of Constitution’s framers, who laid the foundation for an inclusive and secular India.
"We are indebted to the people whose supreme sacrifices made a significant impact on the nation. Their sacrifices are a source of inspiration for all Indians and the nation will always remember them," he asserted.
Hailing the contribution of Dr. BR Ambedkar, the chief architect of the Indian Constitution, Javed Rana said that he played a pivotal role in drafting this landmark document. “He gave this great country a constitution which guarantees rights to every citizen without discrimination of caste, color, region or religion," he said.
Javed Rana highlighted the diversity that makes India strong and vibrant and urged all to reaffirm commitment to uphold the lofty constitutional principles and work towards a more inclusive, prosperous and strong India.
"We have to be at the forefront in defending the core values of the Constitution that defines the republic and shapes our collective future," he said, adding that upholding the idea and ideals of the Constitution will be the true tribute to our constitution.
Javed Rana also paid tribute to the countless sacrifices made by India’s freedom fighters, reiterating the government’s dedication towards fulfilling their vision for a stronger and greener India. He encouraged everyone to contribute actively towards nation-building, particularly in addressing climate change and sustainable development.
The Minister also highlighted the achievements recorded by the district administration in various sectors. He made a mention about several major development projects/schemes which are at the verge of completion.
These included National Highway (NH-244) Project, Government Medical College Udhampur, Up-gradation of Government ANM School Udhampur to Govt Nursing College Udhampur, Holistic Agriculture Development Plan (HADP), Jal Jeevan Mission and Public Darbars/ Block Diwas.
DDC Chairperson, Udhampur, Lal Chand; Member Legislative Assembly Udhampur West, Pawan Kumar Gupta; DDC Vice Chairperson, Juhi Manhas Pathania; DIG Udhampur-Reasi Range, Rayees Mohd Bhat; Deputy Commissioner Udhampur, Saloni Rai; SSP, Amod Ashok Nagpure; ADDC, Rajinder Singh and other senior officers from district administration, Police, Army, BSF, CRPF, AIR Force, former PRI members besides prominent citizens of the district were present on the occasion.