KUPWARA, AUGUST 15: The 80th Independence Day was celebrated with patriotic fervour and gaiety at District Police Lines (DPL) Kupwara, where Advisor to the Chief Minister, Nasir Aslam Wani, hoists the National Flag and offered high tributes to freedom fighters and national heroes of India.
The programme commenced with singing of the national song, followed by hoisting of the National Flag and playing of the National Anthem. This was followed by an impressive march past by contingents of JKP, CRPF and other paramilitary and security forces, along with students of various educational institutions, which was inspected by the Chief Guest.
Alongside the parade, various departments of the district administration presented colourful tableaux, vividly depicting their key achievements, ongoing projects and the developmental works undertaken across the district. The tableaux drew widespread appreciation from the audience for effectively showcasing the strides made by different departments in their respective sectors.
Addressing the gathering on the occasion, the Advisor extended his heartfelt congratulations to the people on the eve of the 80th Independence Day. He remarked that despite the challenges faced over the years, the people of the area have held the hand of democracy tight and reposed unwavering faith in the democratic process.
Highlighting the achievements and initiatives of the present government, the Advisor said that flagship schemes like Mission Youth are driving the development and empowerment of the youth of the district. He informed that an amount of Rs 103 crore has been earmarked under the District Capex Budget, under which around 1600 developmental projects have been taken up across various sectors.
He stated that macadamisation of 187 km of roads is being carried out in the district, while 11 roads have been taken up for execution under NABARD. A bridge at Regipora is also being constructed to improve connectivity in the area. He said that the Sadhna Tunnel project, once completed, will give a major boost to the region’s economy and prosperity, adding that the DPR for the project is under process.
The Advisor also spoke about the proposed Multi Sports Academy at Galizoo, Kupwara, to be set up at a cost of Rs 16 crore, for which the DPR is under progress. He said a Sewage Treatment Plant (STP) for Kupwara town, costing Rs 13 crore, is also being taken up to improve civic infrastructure.
On the education front, he spoke of the introduction of more courses and upgradation of the Kashmir University’s Kupwara Campus, including a Nursing College. He also underscored the importance of the Lolab Bypass for the region, assuring that work on the project shall be expedited on priority.
The Advisor reiterated the government’s unflinching commitment to holistic development and inclusive progress of all sections of society.
Elaborating on his vision for the district, the Advisor said the government envisions this region as one where peace prevails, progress is ensured, statehood is restored and employment opportunities are available for the youth. Access to quality education and healthcare and ease of obtaining justice, he said, must be assured to all with respect for law and due authority and equal opportunities for every citizen of District Kupwara to progress and succeed.
The function also witnessed vibrant cultural performances by the students of various schools, who showcased scintillating presentations reflecting the true spirit of patriotism and independence, enthralling the audience present on the occasion.
A prize distribution ceremony was also held during the function, wherein meritorious officials, officers, members of civil society, media persons and members of the general public were felicitated and honoured for their distinguished contributions in their respective fields.
The programme concluded with the playing of the national song and national Anthem.
Prominent among those present on the occasion were MLA Lolab, Qaiser Jamsheed Lone; MLA Trehgam, Mir Saifullah; Deputy Commissioner Kupwara, Shrikant Suse; SSP Kupwara, Al-Tahir Gilani; Shakhtavat, Dy. GOC, 28 Division; Anupam Thapa, Commanding Officer, 41 RR besides senior officers of the civil and police administration, Ex-PRIs, large number of citizens and media persons.
