POONCH: Celebrating the 79th Independence Day, Minister for Jal Shakti, Forest, Ecology & Environment, and Tribal Affairs, Javed Ahmed Rana, hoisted the National Flag at the Sports Stadium in Poonch amid a vibrant ceremony reflecting patriotic fervor across the district.
The event was attended by DDC Chairperson Tazeem Akhter, Deputy Commissioner Ashok Kumar Sharma, Senior Superintendent of Police Shafket Hussain Bhat, DDC members Abdul Ghani and Riaz Naz, along with PRI representatives, senior officials, armed forces personnel, civil society members, students, and citizens from across Poonch.
The Minister inspected the ceremonial parade and took the salute, upholding the rich traditions of the national celebration.
In his address, Rana expressed deep sorrow over the recent cloudburst in Kishtwar district, offering condolences to the families of the victims and assuring that the government is making every effort for prompt rescue operations and support for the injured and displaced.
Honoring the sacrifices of India’s freedom fighters, he urged everyone to reaffirm their commitment to the ideals they championed. He praised Poonch’s legacy of courage and resilience, noting that the district continues to embody unity and fortitude in building a stronger, inclusive, and equitable India.
Rana highlighted the crucial role of Poonch’s people in safeguarding national unity and strengthening India’s democratic values. He reaffirmed the Omar Abdullah-led government’s commitment to environmental sustainability, the holistic development of tribal communities, and ensuring water security through the Jal Shakti Mission.
