Karnah, Aug 15 (JKNS): Independence Day was celebrated across Karnah with great enthusiasm, patriotic fervour and a strong sense of national pride, with the main function organised at Bagh-e-Bela Hajinarh Helipad, where Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM) Karnah Riyaz Ahmad unfurled the National Flag and took the salute of the ceremonial parade.
The main celebration witnessed the participation of contingents from the National Cadet Corps (NCC), Fire Protection Force, Fire and Emergency Services and Jammu and Kashmir Police, who participated in the ceremonial parade and presented a disciplined march-past before the gathering.
A large number of students from different educational institutions also participated in the celebrations and presented colourful cultural and patriotic programmes. Their performances added vibrancy to the event and highlighted the spirit of patriotism, national unity and respect for the sacrifices made during the country’s freedom struggle.
Addressing the gathering, SDM Riyaz Ahmad highlighted the significance of Independence Day and outlined the various developmental initiatives being undertaken across Karnah. He said that, like other parts of the country, Karnah is witnessing significant development across various sectors and is gradually entering a new phase of growth and transformation.
The SDM emphasised that focused efforts are being made to strengthen basic infrastructure and improve public services in the sub-division. He highlighted ongoing initiatives in education, healthcare, Jal Shakti and other key sectors, saying that several important projects are being implemented with the objective of improving the quality of life of the people.
He further stated that efforts are underway to strengthen road connectivity and ensure that every household is progressively connected through better road infrastructure. The development of connectivity, he said, remains an important component of the ongoing transformation of the border area.
The Independence Day function also brought together representatives from civil administration, police, security forces and the local community. Among those present were the SHO Karnah, Tehsildar Karnah, ZDO Chamkote, ZDO Tangdhar, Block Development Officers, Executive Engineer Jal Shakti, BDO Tangdhar, Munsiff Judge Karnah and the Deputy Commander of 104 Infantry Brigade, besides other officials and representatives.
Former MLA Raja Manzoor, members of civil society, representatives of the Bar Association, former Sarpanches, Lambardars and other prominent citizens of Karnah also attended the programme.
Speakers on the occasion underlined the importance of Independence Day as a reminder of the sacrifices of the freedom fighters and the responsibilities of citizens towards the nation. They called for strengthening national unity, communal harmony, brotherhood and patriotism, while encouraging people, particularly the younger generation, to contribute positively towards the progress and development of the country.
The celebrations also provided an opportunity to recognise individuals who have contributed significantly to public service and departmental functioning. Officers and officials from different departments who had demonstrated outstanding performance were felicitated for their dedication and commendable service.
Students and participants who delivered impressive performances during the cultural and patriotic programmes were also honoured in recognition of their talent and contribution to the celebrations.
The event concluded on a spirited and patriotic note, with the National Flag serving as the central symbol of unity, sacrifice and national pride. The participation of officials, security personnel, students, civil society representatives and local residents reflected the collective spirit of Karnah in celebrating the nation’s Independence Day.
The celebrations also underscored the message that the progress of border areas such as Karnah is closely linked with stronger infrastructure, better public services, quality education, improved healthcare and greater opportunities for the local population.
With the Tricolour flying proudly over Karnah, the Independence Day celebrations carried a strong message of unity, development, peace and collective responsibility, reaffirming the commitment of the people and administration towards building a stronger and more prosperous future for the region. (JKNS)
