SRINAGAR, AUGUST 15: Independence Day 2026 was celebrated with immense patriotic fervour across the districts of Kashmir Division, where respective Deputy Commissioners hoisted the National Flag, inspected the parade and took the salute at an impressive parade.
The Tricolour hoisting ceremonies were held amid impressive Parades and colourful cultural programmes at all venues of functions organized at district, sub-division and tehsil levels across Kashmir.
At Shopian: The 80th Independence Day was celebrated with great patriotic fervour and enthusiasm at District Police Lines (DPL) Shopian, where Deputy Commissioner (DC) Shopian, Shishir Gupta, hoisted the National Flag and took the salute at an impressive parade.
The DC also inspected the parade and witnessed the March Past presented by contingents of CRPF, J&K Police, J&K Women Police, Forest Protection Force, Home Guards, NCC, GDC and school students.
Addressing the gathering, the Deputy Commissioner highlighted the significance of Independence Day and paid tribute to the freedom fighters and all those who made sacrifices for the unity, integrity and sovereignty of the nation. He underscored the importance of collective responsibility, peace, progress and dedicated efforts towards nation-building and building a developed India.
Multiple cultural programmes were presented by students and artists, who mesmerised the audience with vibrant performances reflecting the rich cultural heritage and patriotic spirit of Shopian.
Outstanding performers and participants were felicitated with prizes for securing top positions in various events. Officers, officials and media persons were also felicitated for their services and contributions.
MLA Zainapora Showkat Hussain Ganie, MLA Shopian Shabir Ahmed Kulley, Principal District & Sessions Judge Shopian Mehmood Ahmed Chaudhary, SSP Shopian Mushtaq Ahmad Chaudhary, ADDC, ADC, district civil and police officers, besides a large number of people, were present on the occasion.
Meanwhile, at the Mini-Secretariat Shopian, ADDC Dr. Nasir Ahmed Lone hoisted the National Flag in the presence of officers and officials of the district administration.
Similar celebrations were held at Sub-Division Zainapora, where SDM Bilal Ahmad hoisted the National Flag, besides various Tehsil Headquarters across the district, with enthusiastic participation of officers, officials, students and the general public.
The celebrations culminated with a strong message of national unity, peace, integrity, progress and collective commitment towards building a stronger, prosperous and developed India.
At Kulgam: 80th Independence Day was observed with great enthusiasm at District Police Lines, Kulgam, where Deputy Commissioner Kulgam, Shahzad Alam, hoisted the National Flag and led the celebrations as Chief Guest.
The ceremony began with the hoisting of the Tricolour, followed by a ceremonial inspection of the parade. The DC took the salute during an impressive march past led by Dy.SP Dheeraj Shavan.
Contingents from J&K Police, J&K Armed Police, CRPF, Women’s Contingent of J&K Police, Home Guards, NCC Cadets, the Band Squad, and students from schools across the district participated. The formations featured synchronized drills, disciplined maneuvers, and stirring band performances that drew loud applause from the gathering.
In his address, the DC extended warm Independence Day greetings to the people of Kulgam and said that today with immense pride, enthusiasm, and national unity, we are celebrating the 80th Independence Day of our great homeland. This blessed day reminds us of the timeless sacrifices of our great martyrs and national leaders who gave up their present for the sake of our tomorrow, he said.
“On behalf of all the residents of District Kulgam, I pay my sincere tribute to all those well-known and unknown sons of the nation. Our freedom is their trust, and safeguarding this trust is our national duty”, said the DC.
“Freedom is not just a historical event or the ceremony of hoisting a flag. Freedom is a responsibility, an adherence to the law, respect for human dignity, equality, brotherhood, and a pledge to contribute to the progress of the country. Our Constitution gives us rights, but it also teaches us to fulfill our duties with honesty and a strong sense of responsibility. On this day, let us renew our resolve that we will strengthen love against hatred, unity against division, and hope against despair”, the DC further continued in his Independence Day speech.
The event also showcased impressive cultural, patriotic, and dramatic performances by school students, reflecting the spirit of freedom, patriotism, brotherhood, and national pride, adding color to the celebrations.
The function witnessed a large turnout of officials, students, citizens, martyrs’ families, and personnel from police, paramilitary, and security forces, ex DDC members, PRI members, civil society members, among others.
Among those present were SSP Kulgam Anayat Ali, ADDC Kulgam Altaf Ahmad Khan, ADC Vikar Ahmad Giri, along with district and sectoral officers, police officers, and senior officers from various security agencies.
Meanwhile, ADDC Kulgam, Altaf Ahmad Khan hoisted the National Flag at Mini Secretariat in presence of officials and citizens. Flag hoisting ceremonies were also held at SD DH Pora, led by SDM Noorabad, and at tehsildar headquarters by Tehsildars and other offices and educational institutions of the district.
At Ganderbal: The 80th Independence Day was celebrated across District Ganderbal with patriotic fervour and enthusiasm, with the main function held at Qamaria Stadium, Ganderbal, where Deputy Commissioner Ganderbal, Jatin Kishore, hoisted the National Flag and took the salute on the occasion.
The Deputy Commissioner inspected the parade and witnessed the march past presented by contingents of Police, security forces and students.
Addressing the gathering, the Deputy Commissioner extended warm greetings to the people of Ganderbal on the occasion of Independence Day and paid rich tributes to the freedom fighters and national heroes whose sacrifices made the country’s freedom possible. He called upon citizens to uphold the values of unity, integrity, brotherhood and constitutional responsibility.
Highlighting the developmental progress of the district, he said that Ganderbal is witnessing significant advancements in connectivity, infrastructure and public services. He highlighted major projects including the Zojila Tunnel and Srinagar Ring Road Phase II and II A, besides initiatives under Jal Jeevan Mission, power sector and renewable energy.
The Deputy Commissioner also highlighted ongoing efforts in healthcare, education, social security, women empowerment, agriculture, youth entrepreneurship, tourism and sports, and emphasised the administration’s commitment to ensuring that the benefits of development reach every section of society.
Speaking about the fight against drug abuse, he said that the district administration has adopted a whole-of-society approach under the Nasha Mukt Jammu and Kashmir Abhiyan, focusing on awareness, counseling, rehabilitation, youth engagement and strict enforcement. He appealed to parents, teachers, religious leaders and community organisations to contribute towards making Ganderbal a drug-free district.
Highlighting the developments in agriculture and youth entrepreneurship, the Deputy Commissioner said that HADP and JKCIP have strengthened livelihoods through income generating units, while Mission YUVA is creating opportunities for entrepreneurship, self-employment and self-reliance among youth and women.
He also appreciated the achievements of Ganderbal’s sports persons and students including the participation of 51 children in National level Games, with seven securing medals at the national level.
The Deputy Commissioner said that the administration’s vision is to build a cleaner, greener, healthier, better connected and economically vibrant Ganderbal.
He called upon citizens to work collectively towards the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047 and contribute towards making Ganderbal a model district in the country.
The celebrations also featured patriotic and vibrant cultural performances by students, adding colour and patriotic fervour to the occasion.
On the occasion, meritorious students, officers and officials, police personnel and other achievers were felicitated in recognition of their outstanding performance and dedicated services. The students and participants who took part in the march past were also appreciated for their disciplined and enthusiastic participation in the Independence Day celebrations.
The main function was attended by Senior Superintendent of Police Ganderbal, Additional District Development Commissioner, Additional Deputy Commissioner, Assistant Commissioner Revenue, Assistant Commissioner Development, district and sectoral officers, police and security personnel, students, civil society representatives and a large gathering of the general public.
Independence Day functions were also organised at Sub Divisional, Tehsil, Block, Panchayat, Urban Local Body and educational institutions across the district with enthusiastic participation of officials, students and citizens.
The celebrations concluded with a renewed pledge to uphold the ideals of freedom, unity, brotherhood and constitutional values, and to contribute towards building a stronger, prosperous and Viksit Bharat.
At Bandipora: District Bandipora came alive with vibrant celebrations and deep patriotic spirit on the occasion of the 80th Independence Day, with a series of events held across the district.
At the heart of the celebrations was the main function at Government Higher Secondary School Nadihal, where Deputy Commissioner Bandipora, Indu Kanwal Chib, hoisted the National Flag in the presence of MLA Bandipora Nizamuddin Bhat; Principal District and Sessions Judge Bandipora Jeema Bashir; and Senior Superintendent of Police Bandipora, Ajaz Ahmad Zargar.
Following the flag hoisting, the Deputy Commissioner inspected the parade and took the salute from march-past contingents comprising CRPF 3rd Battalion, BSF 62 Battalion, J&K Executive Police, IRP 21st Battalion, J&K Mahila Executive Police, Kashmir Forest Training School Chitternar, J&K Special Police officials, J&K Home Guards, NCC cadets of NM BHSS Bandipora, Higher Secondary School Quilmuqam, High School Bagh Bandipora, Higher Secondary School Mantigam, Higher Secondary School Nadihal, Higher Secondary School Aragam, Army Goodwill School Bandipora, G&B Hostel Bandipora, High School Qazipora, SMS Islamia Model School Garoora and J&K Executive Police Band. The parade was commanded by DySP Syed Dayam Kazmi, with PSI Isha Kumari as the 2nd Parade Commander.
In her Independence Day address, the Deputy Commissioner extended greetings to the people and emphasized the message “Mera Desh, Mera Ghar.” She said that when the nation is respected as one’s home, its protection, dignity and well-being becomes a collective responsibility. She called upon citizens to contribute to nation-building by keeping the country clean, green and drug-free and urged everyone to uphold the spirit of “Nation Before Self.”
Highlighting the district’s achievements, the Deputy Commissioner said that District Bandipora has earned the Best Performer Award in India under the prestigious Adi Karmayogi Abhiyaan, recognising its implementation and on-ground impact.
On infrastructure development, she said that work was underway on three major bridges at Aragam, Tangwani and Naninara, which would strengthen connectivity in the district. She also highlighted the completion of major works including the car parking facility at Gulshan Park and PRI Apartments at Watpora, besides efforts to shift rented health centres and revenue offices to permanent buildings.
Referring to livelihood and tourism initiatives in Gurez, the Deputy Commissioner said that work on the Rural Mart under the Seema Samridh Yojana had commenced, which would provide livelihood opportunities to local people while also facilitating tourists visiting Gurez. She said Gurez had witnessed a significant tourist footfall this year and highlighted the growing tourism potential of Gurez and Tulail. She also stated that, with the support of the BRO and Indian Army, an all-women Gurezi Bazaar had been established in Gurez and was emerging as an important source of income despite the valley’s limited business season. She appreciated the people of Gurez for welcoming tourists and highlighted the availability of campsites, zip lines, Shina Culture Centre and homestays.
On the campaign against drug abuse, the Deputy Commissioner said that the District Administration had worked extensively under the 100-Day Nasha Mukt J&K Abhiyan to address the menace of drug abuse. She lauded the efforts of District Police Bandipora under the leadership of SSP Bandipora, and said that initiatives including Dosti Discussions, Maa Se Guft-a-Gu, conventions and the Rehbar initiative had strengthened the campaign and would continue beyond the 100-day period. She also highlighted the Knowledge Centre at Mini Secretariat Bandipora and Weekly Nun Chai Talks as initiatives contributing towards education, awareness and sustained efforts against drug abuse.
Referring to enforcement measures, the Deputy Commissioner said that the district had taken various actions in accordance with applicable directions and guidelines, including demolition drives and action concerning driving licences, registration certificates, Aadhaar, passports and contractors’ cards.
On solid waste management, she said the District Administration had taken a series of measures in line with applicable Supreme Court rulings and Government of India guidelines. These included the survey of Bulk Waste Generators, the first-ever Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) Convention at Dawar, Gurez, establishment of a plastic check-post and the Swachhta 50-50 campaign. She said these efforts were aimed at ending waste menace including dumping at Zalwan and promoting responsible waste management.
The Deputy Commissioner stressed that from September 1, 2026, BDOs and the Municipal Council would collect only dry waste from households, while households would be responsible for managing their wet waste. She said School Eco Clubs and Anganwadi workers had been trained and assigned responsibility for 50 households and five shops each under the Swachhta 50-50 approach, with the objective of ensuring equal participation of the community and government in maintaining cleanliness.
The Deputy Commissioner said that Independence Day provided an opportunity to reflect on the future of the coming generations and called upon every citizen to undertake at least one act in the spirit of “Nation Before Self.” She expressed the hope that by the next Independence Day, citizens would have helped at least one person affected by drug addiction, supported the education of a poor student, kept their surroundings clean and adopted measures such as rooftop rainwater harvesting.
The Deputy Commissioner thanked MLA Bandipora, Principal District and Sessions Judge Bandipora, PRI representatives, security agencies, Education Department, Youth Services and Sports Department, PDD, PHE, Health Department, District Police Bandipora, and particularly the local people and students for their contribution to the successful conduct of the celebrations.
The celebrations featured a vibrant cultural programme presented by students from AGS Hajin & KV BSF Bandipora, GHS Sumbal & HSS Hajin, HS Bonakoot, GHSS Bandipora & JNV Bandipora, G&B Hostel Bandipora and GHS Plan. The performances included patriotic, Kashmiri, Shina and Gojri songs, showcasing the rich cultural diversity and talent of the district. A special Assam Bihu dance by CRPF personnel also added to the cultural proceedings.
The event was also attended by Additional District Development Commissioner Bandipora, Nazir Ahmad Mir; Additional Deputy Commissioner Bandipora, Zaffar Husson Shawl; ASP Bandipora; DPO ICDS Bandipora Yaar Ali Khan; ACR Bandipora, Shabir Ahmad Wani; SE R&B Bandipora; ACP Bandipora; CPO Bandipora; Dy DEO Bandipora; CEO Bandipora; ARTO Bandipora; DTO Bandipora; DIO Bandipora; Tehsildar Bandipora and other senior officers of the civil and police administration, public representatives, students and a large gathering of the public.
Earlier, the Deputy Commissioner hoisted the National Flag at her official residence, reaffirming the spirit of patriotism, unity and national pride.
At the Mini Secretariat Bandipora, Additional Deputy Commissioner Bandipora Zaffar Husson Shawl hoisted the National Flag. At Sumbal, SDM Sumbal Murtaza Ahmad Sheikh hoisted the National Flag, while at Gurez, SDM Gurez Mukhtar Ahmad hoisted the National Flag. Flag hoisting ceremonies were also held at various block headquarters.
The celebrations reflected the unity, enthusiasm and commitment of the people towards national values and the spirit of patriotism.
Independence Day was celebrated across different parts of the district, with schools, Panchayats and government offices organising flag hoisting ceremonies, cultural programmes and public gatherings, reflecting the spirit of national unity and patriotic participation.
At Pulwama: The 80th Independence Day was celebrated across Pulwama district with great enthusiasm, patriotic fervour and national spirit.
The main function was held at District Police Lines (DPL) Pulwama, where Deputy Commissioner Pulwama, Dr. Basharat Qayoom, hoisted the National Flag and took the salute at the ceremonial parade.
The event was attended by MLA Pampore Justice (Retd.) Hasnain Masoodi; MLA Pulwama Waheed Ur Rehman Para; MLA Rajpora Ghulam Mohi Uddin Mir; SSP Pulwama Tanushree; Wing Commander, Air Force Awantipora, R.K. Singh; Commandant CRPF 182 Bn Anil Kumar; Commandant CRPF 183 Bn Rajesh Kumar; ADC Pulwama Dr. S.M. Ashraf; former Chairperson DDC Pulwama Syed Bari Andrabi; former DDC members; district presidents of various political parties; senior officers of Police, Army, Air Force, Paramilitary Forces and Civil Administration, besides senior citizens, families of martyrs, social activists, students, youth, civil society and people from different parts of the district.
The march-past was presented by contingents of J&K Police, J&K Armed Police, CRPF 182 and 183 Battalions, IRP 10th Battalion, Home Guards, Fire & Emergency Services, NCC cadets and students from various educational institutions.
Addressing the gathering, the Deputy Commissioner paid rich tributes to the freedom fighters, patriots and martyrs whose sacrifices and struggles paved the way for the country’s independence. He extended warm greetings to the people of Pulwama on the occasion and called for renewed commitment towards peace, harmony, inclusive development and the building of a strong, prosperous and self-reliant India.
Highlighting the development journey of Pulwama, Dr. Qayoom said that the district has registered significant progress in key sectors including health, education, agriculture, horticulture, roads, employment and basic infrastructure. He said that special focus is being laid on strengthening agriculture and horticulture, promoting modern technology and enhancing farmers’ incomes.
The DC said that education and skill development of youth remain among the administration’s key priorities. He highlighted ongoing efforts to strengthen school infrastructure and provide modern educational facilities, while institutions such as ITIs and EDI are being leveraged to provide youth with skill development, training and self-employment opportunities.
On the health front, he highlighted the ongoing strengthening of healthcare infrastructure in the district and said that the completion of the AIIMS Awantipora project would usher in a new era of quality healthcare services not only for Pulwama but the entire South Kashmir region. Giving an overview of the ongoing development works, Dr. Qayoom said that around 22,000 works are expected to be completed during the current financial year under the District Capex Budget of approximately Rs 484 crore. He said that investments are being channelled towards infrastructure, education, housing, rural development and employment generation.
He also highlighted initiatives aimed at improving housing and basic amenities, including works under Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana, while also highlighting the efforts being made for development of Aspirational Blocks and Panchayats. The district, he said, has also made significant progress under the Aspirational Blocks Programme and other outcome-oriented government initiatives.
Emphasising inclusive growth, the Deputy Commissioner said that special attention is being given to youth empowerment through Mission Yuva, livelihood support for Self Help Groups, tribal welfare initiatives and assistance for specially-abled persons. He stressed that equitable development remains a priority so that every section of society is able to benefit from government schemes and development programmes. The administration, he said, is committed to creating meaningful opportunities for youth, strengthening livelihoods and improving the quality of life of the people.
Highlighting Pulwama’s rich cultural and historical heritage, Dr. Qayoom informed that 59 projects have been approved by the District Level Coordination cum Implementation Committee (DLCIC) under the Revival, Restoration, Preservation and Maintenance of Architecture and Heritage Sites scheme, with several projects already completed and others under execution.
The Deputy Commissioner also highlighted progress in digital connectivity, infrastructure development, agriculture and horticulture, sports and social welfare. He said that Mission YUVA has received an encouraging response from the youth of the district, while various welfare initiatives continue to support vulnerable and deserving sections of society.
Referring to the Nasha Mukt Jammu & Kashmir Abhiyan, Dr. Qayoom said that the campaign in Pulwama has evolved into a strong public movement against substance abuse, with active participation from public representatives, students, youth, women, government employees, civil society organisations, religious leaders and people from all walks of life. He appreciated the collective resolve of the people to protect the younger generation and build a healthy and drug-free society.
Concluding his speech, he urged the people of Pulwama to work together in the spirit of unity, peace and collective responsibility to contribute towards a prosperous, developed and self-reliant future. He also called for renewed commitment to the vision of a Nasha Mukt Jammu and Kashmir Abhiyan in order to create a healthy, aware and progressive society for future generations.
Meanwhile, mega Independence Day functions were also held at District Police Lines Awantipora and Sports Stadium Bajwani, Tral, with patriotic fervour and enthusiastic participation.
Flag-hoisting ceremonies were also conducted at various locations across the district, including Sub-Divisional Headquarters, Tehsil and Block Headquarters, Panchayat Ghars, Kisan Khidmat Ghars (KKGs), Amrit Sarovars, District Administration offices, schools, police stations and other Police and CRPF establishments.
At Anantnag: On the occasion of the 80th Independence Day, a celebratory function was held today at the DC Office Anantnag with great spirit, enthusiasm and patriotic fervour.
The event was attended by senior officers including ADCs, ACR, CPO, CAO, officials, civil society members, social activists, and local residents.
Deputy Commissioner Anantnag, Dr. Bilal Mohiuddin Bhat, hoisted the National Flag and was presented a guard of honour by a contingent of District Police. The function commenced and concluded with fervent renditions of the National Song followed by the National Anthem.
Addressing the gathering, the DC paid rich tributes to the freedom fighters, highlighting their sacrifices and struggles for the nation’s freedom, as well as the great ideals of our forefathers that have shaped modern-day India. He called upon all participants to give their best in their respective capacities as officials, parents, and civil society members to take the country forward.
Emphasizing that accountability, dedicated public service, and transparency lead to a better tomorrow, he underscored the crucial role of youth in achieving Viksit Bharat 2047. He also stressed the importance of the Nasha Mukt Campaign to protect the youth from drug abuse and ensure the nation’s demographic dividend is fully utilized.
On the occasion, an award ceremony was held wherein officers, civil society members, and social activists were felicitated for exemplary public service and outstanding work in their respective fields.
The function highlighted the immense enthusiasm and patriotic spirit of the district. 
At Budgam: The 80th Independence Day was celebrated across Budgam district with patriotic fervour, enthusiasm and a strong sense of national pride.
The main Independence Day function was held at Sports Stadium Budgam, where Deputy Commissioner Budgam, Athar Aamir Khan, hoisted the National Flag and took salute at the march-past presented by contingents of Police, CRPF, NCC and school students.
Earlier, the Deputy Commissioner hoisted the National Flag at his official residence and subsequently at the DC Office Budgam.
The ceremonies were attended by senior officers and officials, who joined in commemorating the historic occasion.
Addressing the gathering at Sports Stadium, the Deputy Commissioner extended warm Independence Day greetings to the people of Budgam and paid homage to the freedom fighters and visionary leaders whose sacrifices secured the country’s independence and laid the foundation of its democratic journey. He advocated for continued commitment to unity, democratic values, inclusive development and collective responsibility.
Highlighting the district’s developmental progress, the Deputy Commissioner said that 3,098 projects were completed under the District Capex Budget for 2025-26 and as many as 3,728 works/projects have been targeted for 2026-27 Financial Year.
The DC highlighted significant progress in road infrastructure, stating that a road length of 164.66 km were macadamized under PMGSY Phase-III, while under R&B a road length of 140 km were blacktopped. Several major bridge projects have also been completed across the district, strengthening connectivity and facilitating movement of people and goods.
In the health sector, he said that the 125-bedded District Hospital at Reshipora is under execution at an estimated cost of ₹49 crore, with substantial physical progress, while another 100-bedded Critical Care Hospital is also under execution at the same location.
Under the Jal Jeevan Mission, 108 out of 163 water supply schemes have been completed, with the remaining schemes targeted for completion by the end of the year.
In the power sector, a 1×6.3 MVA receiving station at Charangam Beerwah has been completed, while two additional receiving stations are under construction.
The Deputy Commissioner also highlighted achievements in agriculture, rural development, education, social welfare, employment generation and livelihood promotion. Under PM-KISAN, 71,450 farmers have been registered and ₹319.29 crore transferred directly into their bank accounts. Under MGNREGA, 4.63 lakh person-days of employment were generated against a first-quarter target of four lakh person-days.
He further informed that 36,063 cases have been approved under HADP, with 13,464 units established so far, while 6000 units were established during current FY.
The Sports Stadium reverberated with patriotic spirit as students and artists presented colourful cultural programmes, showcasing the country’s rich cultural heritage, unity and diversity.
Later, the DC, along with SSP Budgam Hariprasad KK, felicitated employees, journalists, writers, singers, schoolchildren, parade contingents and individuals from different walks of life for their exemplary contributions, dedicated service and outstanding achievements in their respective fields.
Meanwhile, similar Independence Day functions were organised at all Sub-Divisional Magistrate offices, Block Development Offices and Panchayat-level locations across the district. The concerned officers hoisted the National Flag at their respective venues, while officials, employees, students and local residents participated in the celebrations with enthusiasm and patriotic spirit.
The celebrations across Budgam reflected a collective commitment towards national unity, public service, inclusive development and the ideals of the Constitution.
ADDC Vivek Agarwal, ADC Taufeeq Ahmad Gazi and ASP Syed Sajad Bukhari, along with senior district and sectoral officers, officers from the Police, Army, CRPF and other security forces, former PRIs, and other distinguished guests from different walks of life, were present on the occasion.
At Handwara: The 80th Independence Day was celebrated with great patriotic fervour and enthusiasm across Handwara.
The main function was held at the District Police Lines (DPL), Handwara, where Additional Deputy Commissioner, (ADC), Handwara, Javed Naseem Masoodi, unfurled the National Flag and took the salute at an impressive ceremonial parade.
The parade witnessed enthusiastic participation of contingents from the Jammu & Kashmir Police, Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), Forest Protection Force (FPF), Home Guards, NCC cadets, school students and the Police Band, presenting a disciplined and vibrant display of patriotism.
The ceremony also featured colourful cultural performances and tableaux (Jhankis) presented by various departments and educational institutions. The tableaux highlighted the achievements of different departments, developmental initiatives and various government welfare schemes being implemented for the benefit of the people.
Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Handwara, Sahil Sarangal, along with senior civil, police and Army officers, sub-divisional level officers, government employees, students and a large number of residents from different areas of Sub division Handwara the region attended the event.
Meanwhile, Independence Day was also celebrated with equal enthusiasm across all government offices, educational institutions, blocks and panchayats throughout the Handwara sub-division. Officials unfurled the National Flag and participated in ceremonial salutes, while a series of patriotic and cultural programmes were organised, reflecting the spirit of national unity, pride and togetherness.
The celebrations witnessed widespread public participation, with people from all walks of life coming together to commemorate the nation’s Independence and reaffirm their commitment to the values of unity, peace and development.
At Karnah: The spirit of patriotism, unity and national pride echoed across the picturesque border region of Karnah as the 80th Independence Day was celebrated with unparalleled enthusiasm, dignity and grandeur at the Sub-Divisional Headquarters Karnah Hajinarh.
The celebrations witnessed massive participation of students, Army and BSF and othet security authorities, civil administration, J&K Police, Ex-PRIs, civil society representatives, media fraternity and citizens of Karnah, who gathered in large numbers to commemorate the glorious occasion.
The main function was organised at the Sub-Divisional Headquarters, where SDM Karnah Mohd Raiyaz hoisted the Tricolour with pride and honour amid the resonating notes of the National Song and National Anthem.
The celebrations witnessed a magnificent display of discipline, dedication and patriotism through an impressive march past by contingents and a series of captivating cultural performances. Students from various educational institutions showcased the rich cultural heritage of Karnah through vibrant traditional presentations, beautifully blending local customs with the larger theme of national unity, pride and devotion towards the motherland.
The colourful cultural programme reflected the unique identity of Karnah while carrying the powerful message of “Unity in Diversity” inspiring the gathering with the values of harmony, brotherhood and collective responsibility towards nation-building.
Addressing the gathering, SDM Karnah appreciated the overwhelming participation and patriotic spirit displayed by the people of Karnah. He lauded the unwavering dedication of students, teachers, civil society, media fraternity, Army Authorities, BSF and all stakeholders whose collective efforts made the celebrations a memorable and historic event.
The SDM highlighted that the exceptional coordination between the civil administration, security forces and the people of Karnah stands as a shining example of mutual trust, cooperation and unity, setting a benchmark for other border areas of the country.
At Sopore: Independence Day 2026 was celebrated with immense patriotic fervour and enthusiasm across Sopore, with the main function held at Khushal Stadium where Additional Deputy Commissioner Sopore, Dr. S.A. Raina, hoisted the National Flag and took the salute on the March Past.
The ceremony commenced with hoisting of the Tricolour filling the atmosphere with a deep sense of pride and patriotism. The parade featured contingents from various uniformed services, police, security forces, Home Guards, NCC, and other participating groups, who marched past the dais in a disciplined and impressive display.
Addressing the gathering, the ADC extended warm greetings to the people on the occasion of Independence Day and paid rich tributes to the freedom fighters and martyrs whose sacrifices laid the foundation of the nation’s freedom, sovereignty and democratic values.
Dr. S.A. Raina highlighted the significant developmental progress made across Sopore Sub-division, particularly in sectors including agriculture, education, healthcare, rural development, road connectivity, social welfare, youth empowerment, women empowerment and employment generation.
The celebrations also featured colourful cultural programmes presented by students and local participants, showcasing the rich cultural heritage, national unity and social values associated with the spirit of Independence Day.
The function was attended by the Senior Superintendent of Police Sopore, Iftikhar Talib, senior civil and police officers, officers and officials from various departments, students, representatives of civil society and a large gathering of people.
