Srinagar: In a vibrant display of patriotism and unity, full-dress rehearsals for the upcoming 79th Independence Day celebrations unfolded today across Kashmir.
The rehearsals held at all district headquarters marked the culmination of weeks of preparation, offering a glimpse into the grand festivities set to light up the Valley on August 15.
On the occasion, heartfelt tributes were paid to the nation’s leaders, freedom fighters, and martyrs whose sacrifices paved the way for India’s independence. Their unwavering dedication was honored as the foundation of the freedom enjoyed by the country today.
At Srinagar, Divisional Commissioner (Div Com) Kashmir, Vijay Kumar Bidhuri hoisted the National Flag at Bakshi Stadium, inspected the parade contingents, took salute at March past and addressed the participants.
Earlier, Div Com paid floral tribute to the martyrs of the nation, who laid their lives in the line of national duty, at Balidan Stambh, Pratap Park. He was accompanied by IGP Kashmir, Vijay Kumar Birdi, DC Srinagar Akshay Labroo, and other officers of civil administration & security agencies.
Addressing the participants at the Bakhshi Stadium, the main venue for the celebration of Independence Day in J&K, Div Com highlighted developmental and socio-economic achievements of the government.
Div Com said that terrorists who massacred innocent people at Pahalgam tried to create fear and division among the people but the general public strongly condemned the heinous and drastic act of terrorism in one voice.
He remarked that operation Sindoor was a befitting reply to dismantle the bases of terrorism while operation Mahadev delivered justice to the actual perpetrators of Pahalgam killings.
Bidhuri said the government successfully executed Hajj pilgrimage despite the prevailing situation during operation Sindoor. He also credited civil & security departments for peaceful and smooth conduct of annual Shri Amarnathji Yatra.
Different contingents of BSF, CRPF, ITBP, SSB, JKAP, IRP, Women contingent, SDRF, Fire & Emergency, Forest Protection Force, NCC contingents, Pipe band, Brass band and students from different schools participated in march past parade.
IGP, Kashmir, DIG Central Kashmir, Deputy Commissioner Srinagar, SSP Srinagar, SSP Traffic Srinagar, SSP Traffic Rural, SSP Security, Senior officers and other security agencies including CRPF, BSF, NDRF besides HODs & offices all civil departments were present on the occasion.
The colourful cultural programmes enacted on the occasion by students & artists demonstrated the fervor for Independence Day celebration. Similar functions were held elsewhere at district headquarters in Valley.