Bareilly: Divisional Commissioner Shambhu Kumar hoisted the national flag at the Commissioner’s Office premises on the occasion of the 80th Independence Day on August 15. Following the flag hoisting ceremony, the Divisional Commissioner and other officials paid floral tributes at the Amar Shaheed Memorial to honour the martyrs who sacrificed their lives for the country’s freedom. The Commissioner also planted saplings on the premises.
Addressing officials and other attendees, Kumar said the country was also observing the 150th anniversary of Vande Mataram. He said Independence Day was not merely a celebration of freedom but a reminder of the dreams of the brave sons and daughters of the country who laid down their lives for independence.
He emphasised that the nation could move towards greater success only when citizens performed their duties with complete sincerity and dedication. While India had made significant progress in education and employment, he said certain challenges continued to hold the country back.
The Commissioner expressed confidence that India would emerge as a developed nation by 2047. He said the meaning of freedom extended beyond merely hoisting the national flag and included promoting fraternity, friendship, harmony and mutual affection among citizens.
Kumar urged people to reflect on how they could contribute to India’s continued progress. He noted that the country now has sufficient foodgrain reserves not only to meet domestic requirements but also to supply foodgrains to other nations.
Describing Independence Day as a matter of pride for every Indian, he said the occasion should inspire citizens to work for national development and social harmony. Independence Day, he added, was not simply a remembrance of the past but also an opportunity to shape the country’s future by advancing the principles of education, equality and social justice.
Additional Commissioner (Judicial) Preeti Jaiswal and Joint Development Commissioner Pradeep Kumar also shared their views on the occasion. School students presented patriotic songs and cultural performances, which were appreciated by those present.
Joint Development Commissioner, Additional Commissioner (Administration), Additional Commissioner (Judicial), and other officers and employees of the Commissioner’s Office attended the programme.
Report from Bareilly by Akhilesh Chandra Saxena
