Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Aug 15: India’s 55th Independence Day was celebrated with unfurling of National Flag and conducting other programmes......more

Various educational institutions celebrate
I-Day with enthusiasm,
patriotic spirit

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Aug 15: Unfurling of National Tri-Colour amidst pledge to safeguard the honour and integrity.....more

School children
carry out peace
march in Doda

Excelsior Correspondent

DODA, Aug 15: The school children of Doda drawn from various schools carried out a peace march this morning in the Doda city.......more

Political parties celebrate I-Day with patriotic spirits

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Aug 15: The 55th Independence Day of nation was celebrated by various political parties and politicians throughout the Jammu region with patriotic spirits and enthusiasm......more

NGAGA to hold
protest on
August 20

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Aug 15: Non-Gazetted Agriculture Graduates (NGAGA) convened a general body meeting of all Junior Agriculture Assistants under the......more

Agri employees
to hold protest
on Aug 20

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Aug 15: Non Gazetted Agriculture Graduates Association (NGAGA) in a meeting held here under the presidentship of Rajesh Langar, decided to hold a protest demonstration.........more

Concern over
malfunctioning of
Trepsone Exchange

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Aug 15: Inhabitants of Trepsone, Tambia, Saliskote, Kanoor and G M Pora have expressed their serious concern over the malfunctioning of Telephone Exchange at Trepsone......more

I Day celebrated at Budhal

Excelsior Correspondent

RAJOURI, Aug 15: A colourful function was held in Government Girls High School Budhal to celebrate the 54th Independence Day today. Principal Government Higher Secondary School Budhal.....more

Jammu Statehood
Movement activists hold
pledge ceremony on I-Day

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Aug 15: The activists of All Parties Jammu Statehood Movement today hoisted national flag at historic Purani Mandi Chowk here today and took pledge to get ready for any type of sacrifice to have............more

Minister for Education, Mr Mohd Shafi taking a salute at the Independence Day function held at Mini Stadium Parade Jammu. -Excelsior/Ashok

Various social, cultural, trade organisations
celebrate I Day

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Aug 15: India’s 55th Independence Day was celebrated with unfurling of National Flag and conducting other programmes by a large number of social organisations, Commerce and Trade organisations and different employees organisations throughout the Jammu region today.

Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Jammu, celebrated the day with lot of fervour and gaiety, Chamber president Mr Ram Sahai unfurled the national flag in presence of a large number of members who took pledge to safeguard the honour and integrity of the country. Members resolved to sacrifice everything to uphold the respect of Tricolour. Senior most Chamber member Lala Sanjhi Ram called upon the people to defeat the evil designs of anti-national elements. later sweets were distributed.

The PHE Employees Association, Jammu province,celebrated Independence Day at PHE Pumping Station Company Bagh in which Superintending Engineer (Urban), Mr I C Jandial, hoisted the Tricolour and in his brief speech narrated the importance of the Day and urged the employees and workers to work dedicatedly and honestly and also remain alert to safe-guard the property of the department. Association president Mr Shiv Kumar Sharma while addressing assured the officers present on the occasion that Association will strive for serving the people and also watch the interests of the department. He appealed the authorities to approach the Government for settling the most genuine demands of the workers and employees.

Dr G N Qazi, Director, Regional Research Laboratory, Jammu unfurled the National Tricolour to mark the beginning the celebrations of Independence Day. A large number of staff members alongwith their family members were present on the occasion. Hoisting of Flag was followed by National Anthem. RRL School children presented a variety cultural programme. Dr Qazi announced a cash award of Rs 5000 to the RRL School children for their wonderful performance in the programme.

Jammu and Kashmir Trade Union Congress celebrated the day at Shastri Nagar-Sanjay Chowk. The celebration was joined by Welfare Development Action Committee, Shopkeepers Union Shastri Nagar and a large number of local people. Pt Mangat Ram Sharma, ex-MP and senior Congress leader was the chief guest who hoisted the National Flag and stressed on the masses to maintain unity at all costs which was the need of the hour. The Trade Union Congress leaders who spoke on the occasion included Messrs Sewa Ram Sharma, president and O P Khajuria, general secretary of J&KTUC besides working president Jagmohan Sadhotra and Ch Iqbal.

Mrs Lalita Sabherwal senior vice president of J&KTUC and Mr Vishal, president Khatri Welfare Sabha in separate functions hoisted the National Flag at Partap Garh Jammu at different places to celebrate the Day.

PHE Workers Welfare Association celebrated the I-Day function at PHE Sub Division Dhounthly, under the presidentship of Mr bakshi Singh, provincial president. Mr A K Puri, AEE (Mechanical), who was the chief guest in his brief speech said every one must maintain communal harmony and traditional brotherhood at all costs. On this occasion the martyrs of freedom struggle and their sacrifices were remembered and tributes paid to them.

J&K PHE Employees Union Jammu organised two functions in the city to mark the celebrations of the Day. Mr I C Jandial, Superintending Engineer (Urban) was the chief guest who hoisted the National Tricolour at the function organised under the presidentship of Mr Darshan Magotra at Maheshpura Chowk. Mr J L Gupta, Executive Engineer City Division, presided over. The officers stressed on the employees to work with dedication and appealed the people to maintain unity. The other function of the Union was held at Tawi Pumping Station where the tricolour was hoisted by Mr A K Gandotra, Executive Engineer, PHE Mechanical (North).

Hind Mazdoor Sabha, J&K, organised a colourful function to mark the day at Narwal Bala where Mr Sat Pal Sharma, president unfurled the National Tricolour. Mr Sharma while addressing appealed the workers to maintain unity at all costs.

PHE Department Drivers, Cleaners Union celebrated the Day at PHE Complex, B C Road Jammu. Union president S Swaran Singh hoisted the National Tricolour. A large number of association members were present on the occasion. The speakers stressed for maintaining unity and integrity at all costs.

PHE Employees Welfare Association celebrated Independence Day function at Pumping Station Parade under the presidentship of S Balwinder Singh. Moulvi Muneer Ahmed, senior vice president, Satish Nanda, president PHE Mech and Hardayal Singh jointly saluted the National Flag.

All Public Sector Employees Joint Action Committee organised a simple but impressive function to mark the celebration of the Day under the chairmanship of Mr Suresh Sharma. The function was presided over by Mr Bodh Raj Bali, provincial president of J&K National Conference. Mr Bali highlighted the sacrificed made by large number of martyrs in the freedom struggle and paid them rich tributes. He stressed for maintaining communal harmony and unity at all costs.

National State Government Employees Federation joint secretary Mr Suman Sharma hoisted the National Flag at a function held today to celebrate the Day.

All J&K State Works Supervisors Association, state secretary general Mr Suman Sharma also hoisted National flag at the function of the Association and stressed on the members for maintaining unity at all costs.

Jammu provincial president of People Welfare Association Mr Amrish Sharma hoisted Tricolour at Laxmi Narayan Mandir to mark the celebrations of Independence Day.

Dogra Sadar Sabha Jammu president Thakur Gulchain Singh Charak hoisted the National Flag at Sabha Office Dogra Hall Jammu. Mr Charak spoke on the importance of the Day and paid tributes to the martyrs who laid down their lives for the freedom of the country. In the end sweets were distributed amongst the participants.

Gandhi Nagar Gole Market Merchants’ Association hoisted National Flag at the main crossing under the presidentship of Capt Gandharv Singh Charak. Peerzada Abdul Hamid, state chief of Lok Jan Shakti Party was the chief guest, other prominent persons present on the occasion being S Kulbir Singh, Gulchain Singh Charak, Thakur Milkha Singh, S Ajit Singh Adyal, S Surjit Singh, Master Chaman Lal Dogra, Beli Ram Langer, Bhushan Kumar Sharma, Ved Prakash Balotra, Vinod Kumar, Bachan Lal and Sain Dass. Sweets were distributed amongst the participants.

Shalamar Traders Association, Jammu celebrated the day at Shalamar Chowk. Mr Ashok Khajuria, MLA, Jammu East, was the chief guest while others present included Messrs Ravi Rohmetra, Vikram Sharma and Suman Jain.

Mr Hans Raj Dogra, MLA Jammu West hoisted the National Tricolour at a function organised by Kabir Nagar Welfare Association, Poonch House Talab Tillo to mark the day.

Kashyap Rajput Sabha celebrated 55th Independence Day of India with usual fervour and gaiety. Dr Mohd Shafi, senior vice president of Youth National Conference unfurled the National Tricolour in premises of Sabha. Messrs Girdhari Lal Kashyap, Sabha president, Darshan Mehra, Sheikh Bashir Ahmed were the guests of honour. The leaders appealed for maintaining unity at all costs and give a befitting reply to nefarious designs of ISI of Pakistan.

Civil Defence Committee, Janipur celebrated the day with fervour in which Dr Ram Krishan Raina, who was the chief guest, hoisted the National Tricolour. Others present on the occasion included Messrs Raja Jee Mantoo, Harbhajan Singh, Rahul Kundal, Vicky, Sonu Kumar, Shashi, Kewal Bhat, Thakur Ranjit Singh and Jagmohan.

Youth Welfare Action Committee, Janipur jammu celebrated Independence Day of the country near Police Station Janipur Colony. Mr B L Kapoor was the chief guest who unfurled the Tricolour.

Khukhran Biradari hoisted National Flag in the premises of Biradari at Raj Tilak Road by its president Mr G N Kohli.

Mahasha Sabha Shiv Mandir , Sarwal Jammu president Mr Tilak Raj Kalotra hoisted the Nation Tricolour in a function under the chairmanship of Mr Vijay Rahi.

Jammu and Kashmir Samaj Sudhar Committee Jammu president Mohd Yusuf Wani and others hoisted Tricolour at their respective districts to mark celebrations of 55th Independence Day of the country.

I Day was celebrated in Sainik Colony by Sainik Cooperative House Builduing Society Limited Jammu today where National flag was hoisted by Th Jai Singh, chairman in the premises of Sainik Public School. A large number of parents, students and prominent citizens of the Colony participated in the flag hoisting ceremony.

Shopkeepers Association Rani Talab Jammu celebrated the Day where Mr Isher Dutt Dogra, president hoisted the National Flag. Others present on the occasion included Messrs Lal Muni Sharma, D C Raina, Brij Mohan Arora, Romesh Chander, R P Arora, Kamal Sharma, Subash Sharma, Amit Arora, Naresh Sharma, Surinder Gupta, Parmod Jain, Ch Hakumat Rai, Ajesh Gupta and Madan Lal.

Mr Romesh Kumar Tak, president Shopkeepers Association, General Bus Stand, Jammu hoisted National Tricolour in a function in which Mr Bansi lal Gupta was the chief guest. Others present on the occasion included Messrs Raghubir Singh Chib, chairman, Raj Kumar Gupta and others.

Aror Bansh Sabha, Kachhi Chowni, Jammu celebrated the day with fanfare where Flag was hoisted by Mr Ramesh Arora Advocate, president. Dr Jatinder Arora also spoke.

Old Hospital Road Traders Association held a function to mark the celebrations of Independence Day under the presidentship of Mr Yudhvir Sethi in which Mr Daya Krishan Kotwal, president State BJP hoisted the National Tricolour. Mr Ashok Khajuria, MLA Jammu East, was also present.

Sena Sahyog Sangathan celebrated the day with enthusiasm. Flag was hoisted by Mr Shiv Kumar who was joined by Col Uttam Singh.

Kali Janni Traders Welfare Society organised a function at Atam Vallabh Jain Sabha, Kali Janni Jammu, which was jointly presided over by Messrs Ramesh Kumar Shunna and Suresh Abrol. Tiny Tots of the locality presented a very colourful programme. Mr Surjit Singh Manhas, chairman of Jammu Citizens Cooperative Bank was the chief guest.

State Bank of India, Purani Mandi Jammu, organised a function to mark the celebration of Independence Day at the coaching centre of Seva Bharti Shastri Nagar in which about 50 children belonging to economically weaker sections participated.

Bahu Social Welfare Committee celebrated the Day with fervour. The tricolour was hoisted by Mr R S Chib, former Minister and senior National Conference leader.

Suvidha Urban and Rural Sanitation Society organised the function at Janipura in which a large number of local people participated. Mr Sanjay Koul hoisted the National Flag.

Kashmir Dramatic Club (Social Welfare) Society held a function at Udheywalla in which Mr Krishan Chand Sharma hoisted National Flag. The function was organised by Deputy Controller of Civil Defence Mr M L Mathur and warden Mr P N Hakim.

Tehsildar Akhnoor Mr B R Malagar hoisted the National Flag in the premises of Town Hall and appreciated the role of school children who participated in the function.

In Bishnah town the National Flag was hoisted by Mr Bansi Lal Tidyal, Tehsildar Bishnah at Fatma Convent High School. Students from over a dozen schools of Bishnah participated in the programme. Various prominent dignitaries of Bishnah tehsil were present on the occasion.

Administrator Notified Area Committee Bari Brahmana Mr Mohd Din hoisted the National Tricolour at a function here in which school children presented march past and sung National Anthem.

Ch Piara Singh, MLA Gandhi Nagar unfurled National Tricolour at SOS Children Village at Channi Rama. He also distributed sweets amongst the inmates of the village.

Morning Walkers Association, Green Belt, Gandhi Nagar extended their best wishes to countrymen on the 55th Independence Day today. Association president hoisted the Tiranga in Green Belt Park Gandhi Nagar and paid rich tributes to martyrs of freedom movement.

Our Udhampur Correspondent adds: Independence Day was celebrated at District Jail Udhampur. Flag was hoisted by SP Jail Mr Manzoor Ahmed Tramboo. Sweets were distributed amongst the inmates of the jail.

PHE Employees Association, Udhampur held a largely attended function at Barrian Station under the chairmanship of Mr Som Nath District president. Mr A G Kohli, Executive Engineer PHE Division Udhampur was the chief guest who hoisted the National Flag. While addressing Mr A G Kohli stressed on the workers and employees to work with zeal and dedication. Mr Som Nath also spoke and called upon the employees to maintain unity and perform their duties in true spirits. Sweets were distributed amongst the participants.

State Bank of India Udhampur branch celebrated 55th Independence Day with fervour and zeal. Tricolour was unfurled at the Branch Office amidst huge gathering. Tea and sweets were distributed amongst the gathering.

Urban Development Society Udhampur organised a function at Lal Chowk under the presidentship of Mr Ajay Mahajan and Mr Rakesh Gupta, senior BJP leader hoisted the National Flag.

Janata Dal (United) senior leader and incharge Mahila Wing of the State Mrs Mohini Mohan unfurled the National Flag at Kotla Udhampur. Speaking on the occasion she appealed the gathering to maintain unity at all costs.

At Ramnagar the the main Independence Day function was held at Higher Secondary School in which Tehsildar Ramnagar Mr S K Kapoor hoisted the National Flag. Different schools of Ramnagar also participated in the celebrations. SHO Ramnagar Mr Sanjeev Mahindroo and officers of Army were also present on the occasion.

At Basantgarh the SDM, Mr G A Wani, unfurled the National Flag at a function held at Government Higher Secondary School. It is for the first time during the past 10 years that the students presented a colourful variety programme. Also present on the occasion were BMO Dr S L Dalia and ZEO Safdar Hussain. Incharge Principal Mr D C Chib and SHO Harbans Lal were also present. At Latti the incharge Principal hoisted the National Flag and the students presented cultural programmes.

Similar functions were also held at High Schools at Khaned and Purnara where students presented variety programmes.

Various educational institutions celebrate
I-Day with enthusiasm, patriotic spirit

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Aug 15: Unfurling of National Tri-Colour amidst pledge to safeguard the honour and integrity of the nation marked the celebrations of 55th Independence Day by various educational institutions throughout Jammu region.

Atman High School, Kunjwani celebrated the 55th Independence Day in school premises. The function started with hoisting of National Flag by Mr I D Soni amidst singing of National Anthem followed by debates and speaches by teachers and students.

Others who present on the occasion included Messrs I D Soni, Administrator, Sanjay Mahajan, Chairman, Jagmohan, Manager and Mrs Ranju, Vice-Principal. The whole programme was well compared by Mrs Gurmeet Kour while Ms Harmeet Kour recited her own poems paying homage to those who sacrificed their lives for freedom of motherland.

Those who participated in debates and group songs included Bazila Farhat, Angad, Jeewandeep, Malvika, Sridul, Rishika, Mehak Majid, Akankasha, Redah Zairab, Surbhi, Kiranjeet, Ambika, Bhuvan Pargal, Akriti and Sumanlata.

Chairman of the School expressed hope for the peace in the country and said that this day reminds us of the great sacrifices made by out national leaders.

Taawishi (Tiny) Scholars (10+2) School celebrated the country’s 55th Independence Day with great fervor. The programme started with hoisting National Tricolour by Principal of the School,Mrs Pooja Malhotra, which was followed by various cultural items, including singing of patriotic songs, colourful dances and paying of homage to martyrs who sacrificed their lives for the independence of the country. Principal of the school gave the message of preserving unity and integrity of India and the programme concluded with singing of National Anthem.

The sense of self-sacrifice, dedication, devotion and the phenomenon of patriotism for the dignity and integrity of the nation shown by children of GPS Tawa Zone, Bhalwal inspired all the those present on the occasion which was organised by Mr Subhash Chander and Yogesh Kumar.

Tri-colour was hoisted followed by National Anthem and patriotic songs by the students.

The 55th Independence Day of the nation was celebrated with great fanfare in K V Miran Sahib.

The celebration started with the unfurling of the National Flag by the Principal Mr K K Azad. It was followed by a colourful cultural programme including dances, speeches and patriotic poems.

The Principal in his speech stressed on the unity and integrity of the Nation, the foundation of which is possible in educational institutions.

Independence Day was celebrated under the chairmanship of Mr Ved Parkash Sharma, Headmaster, Government Middle School Jib.

On the occasion, students displayed several cultural items after the Tri-colour was hoisted by Senior Teacher Mr Karam Chand Abrol. He paid rich tributes to freedom fighters who sacrificed their lives.

He appealed the people to remain united to face the terrorism.

A function was organised in the premises of Government Girls Middle School Mand to celebrate the Independence Day. The Tri-colour was hoisted by the Sarpanch Mr Hari Krishan amidst chanting of Bharat Mata Ki Jai by students.

Mr Kuldeep Sudan, Headmaster of the School also spoke on the occasion and laid stress on the national integration.

Zonal education Officer Mr Bal Krishan was also present on the occasion as chief guest and he stressed on the need to remain united and face the enemy boldly. He also stressed on the need to eradicate social evils.

The students and staff of Government Higher Secondary School, Ghagwal, Kathua celebrated the Independence Day with great enthusiasm.

The Tri-Colour was hoisted by Principal of the institution Mr Karan Singh Sambyal, who, while speaking on the occasion, highlighted the importance of the day and urged the people to be ready for any sacrifices for the betterment of the country.

He also appreciated the handwork put in by Mr Khem Raj, PET and Khem Raj Sharma, PEM in making the function a success.

The Independence Day was celebrated in the premises of Government High School Salmerhi with great pomp and show.

The National Flag was unfurled by Headmaster of the institution Mr M R Seth.

Arya Kanya Vidyalaya High School celebrated the I-Day with great pomp and show. The National Flag was unfurled in the school premises. The main function was organised by Mrs Neelam, Physical Instructor.

The speakers highlighted the achievements of various teachers who took part in the freedom struggle. Mr M L Abrol, Principal said that people should not forget the contributions of freedom fighters and the leaders who laid down their lives for the Independence of the country.

Govt Girls Higher Secondary School, Shastri Nagar celebrated the I-day in the school premises in which Principal hoisted the National Flag amidst singing of National Anthem.

A function was organised in K B Public Higher Sec School, Gujjar Colony, By-Pass Jammu to celebrate the Independence Day. Mr Showkat Javed, Chairman of the School Managing Committee was the chief guest on the occasion.

Principal Mr S P Sharma hoisted the National Flag followed by various cultural programmes.

Independence Day was celebrated in Silver Bells High School with great enthusiasm and patriotic spirits. The students pledged to serve their country sincerely and by all means throughout their lives.

Guru Harkishan Public School organised a function to celebrate I-Day. The National Flag was unfurled by the chief guest Prof Ranbir Singh in the presence of students, the Principal Mr Janak Singh and Vice-Principal Mr Hardev Singh.

Various cultural items were presented by the students on the occasion.

Surya Mahashakti Vidya Mandir, Rajinder Nagar celebrated I-Day with great pomp and show. Mr M L Chaku, president of the School Management Committee presided over the function and hoisted the National Flag followed by various cultural programmes by the students.

Mr Sunil Kotwal, founder of the School and Mr O P Gowdan, Principal spoke on the importance of Independence Day.

Principal Govt Higher Secondary School, Ghou Manhasan Mr Vinod Kapoor today hoisted the National Tri-Colour in the school premises on the eve of Independence Day.

Independence Day was celebrated with great pomp and show in the premises of Govt High School Mathwar, Zone Bhalwal under the guidance of Mr B D Verma who unfurled the National Flag and delivered lecture on the importance of this day for every Indian.

Bharat Public School, Gadi Garh, Satwari celebrated I-Day with great enthusiasm and patriotic spirits. The National Flag was unfurled by Principal of the School who also delivered lecture on the importance of this day and asked the students to follow the path shown by freedom fighters.

Government High School for Boys, Bhore Camp celebrated the day by hoisting the National Tricolour amidst singing of National Anthem.

The 55th I-Day was celebrated by Vidya Jyoti Model High School, Indira Colony Janipur in the school premises. Mr J R Raizala was the chief guest on the occasion who took salute. Mr V K Kotwal unfurled the National Flag.

The students and staff of Shobha Model High School celebrated the 55th Independence Day with gaiety and fervor. Celebrations started with the unfurling of National Flag by the Principal Mrs Shobha Kumari.

Government High School, Jhiri celebrated the I-Day in the school premises with great enthusiasm. Principal Mr Harbans Lal Padha hoisted the National Flag.

An impressive function was held at K B Public School on the eve of Independence Day. The Principal of the School unfurled the National Flag and took the salute in an impressive parade performed by the students.

The Chairman of the School Management Committee Mr Shoukat Javed, other trustees, staff members of the School and prominent citizens including Army officers of the 11th Dogra Regiment took part in the celebrations.

Kendriya Vidyalaya No.1, Akhnoor celebrated the I-Day with great pomp and show imbued with the patriotic zeal of the staff and students. A peace march was taken out by the students of KV No.1 Akhnoor under the guidance of their teachers.

It was flagged off by Col S S Hora, CO 71 Medium regiment and was accompanied by Lt Col P S Yadav, SO 2 Edn. The peace march passed through the main bazars of Akhnoor town. It attracted a large number of spectators enroute who were highly impressed by patriotic slogans and songs.

The peace march culminated at KV No.1 Akhnoor Campus where the National Flag was hoisted by the Principal of Vidyalaya Mr M L Agarwal who urged the students and staff members to re-dedicate themselves to the service of motherland.

Govt Girls Higher Secondary School, Canal Road celebrated the I-Day in the school premises by hoisting the National Flag. Principal of the School Mrs Trilochan Kaur highlighted the importance of the I-Day.

Government Higher Secondary School Bhalwal celebrated 55th Independence Day with patriotic spirits and great enthusiasm. Principal of the School Mr V K Gandotra hoisted the National Flag amidst singing of National Anthem by the students and staff members.

Speaking on the occasion, Mr Gandotra stressed on the need of unity among all sections of the society to defeat the nefarious designs of the enemy. He exhorted the students to follow the path shown by freedom fighters who laid down their lives for the Independence of the nation.

Independence Day was celebrated in Kalidhar Memorial Primary School with great enthusiasm. Mrs Roopa Sharma hoisted the National Flag and the children sang National Anthem. Various cultural programmes were also presented on the occasion.

On the occasion, Army in Sunderbani brought alive the feelings of patriotism in one and all. The army organised various functions in many schools.

Students residing in the boys hostel and the residential staff of Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology at R S Pura celebrated the Independence Day by hoisting the National Flag within the hostel premises.

The students, while speaking on the occasion, recalled the contributions of the freedom fighters. They urged the people to come above of the narrow thinking and defeat the nefarious designs of the bad elements.

Dr C L Raina, Hostel Superintendent congratulated the hostel students for taking the lead of unfurling the National Flag within the hostel premises and urged them to continue the tradition in future also.

Independence Day was celebrated with great enthusiasm, fervour and gaiety in the premises of Govt Middle School, Badali Rakh. Mr Ichpal Singh, Headmaster of the School hoisted the National Flag followed by various cultural programmes.

A large number of school children and staff of Army School BD Bari took out an impressive peace march on the eve of 55th Independence Day.

Commander of the Local Garrison inaugurated the function amidst singing of patriotic song and National Anthem. Addressing the children, Station Commander exhorted them to be a responsible citizen and contribute in a constructive manner towards building of society and strong nation.

The Head Mistress, staff and the students of Govt High School Dhangri, Rajouri celebrated 55th Independence Day with zeal and zest. The village Sarpanch Mr Khem Raj Sharma was the chief guest on the occasion. He hoisted the National Tricolour and took salute with National Anthem.

Navyug High School, Subash Nagar celebrated the Independence Day with great enthusiasm and patriotic spirits. National Flag was hoisted by Mr Hardev Singh Jamwal, secretary management committee.

Kendriya Vidyalaya Samba observed 55th Independence Day in the Vidyalaya premises. The Principal Mr A N Thakar hoisted the National Flag and advised the students to safeguard the hard earned freedom of motherland.

The Principal further urged the students to respect, preserve and protect the national unity and integrity as well as maintain the rich cultural heritage of India. The students were also advised to rise above the pretty differences of caste, creed and community.

Kendriya Vidyalaya Samba joined Army School Samba for the peace march on the occasion of 55th Independence Day. Brig G J Singh, Chairman, VMC and Cdr of this area flaged off the march at the Brigade gate.

Addressing the students, Principal KV Samba Mr A N Thaker highlighted the objectives of such peace march. Brig G J Singh appreciated the endeavour of students and teachers for such a noble cause.

Jyoti Public High School, Gandhi Nagar celebrated 55th Independence day with great pomp and show. The National Flag was unfurled by the Principal amidst singing of National Anthem.

The students of the school delivered different speaches on the importance of this day for every Indian.

School children carry out peace march in Doda

Excelsior Correspondent

DODA, Aug 15: The school children of Doda drawn from various schools carried out a peace march this morning in the Doda city.

Children from all age groups marched through the lanes and by-lanes holding placards in their hands with messages of peace and harmony.

These messengers of peace were applauded by the residents as they moved in a somber mood spreading message of peace. The peace march comes in the wake of recent killings of innocent persons in the district by the terrorists.

These children have over the years learned to live under the shadow of gun and are in dire need of an atmosphere of peace and tranquility. Some of these children were earlier taken for an excursion tour of the country under the aegis of 10 Rashtriya Rifles wherein they were exposed to various historical places and the culture and traditions of our great nation.

The peace marchers entered the Doda stadium to a standing ovation from the people who had gathered to witness the I-day function. These children also presented various cultural items to deliver the message of peace and harmony amongst the masses.

Political parties celebrate I-Day with patriotic spirits

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Aug 15: The 55th Independence Day of nation was celebrated by various political parties and politicians throughout the Jammu region with patriotic spirits and enthusiasm.

The Independence Day was observed by Provincial Committee of National Conference with great pomp and show.

The Tri-colour was hoisted by Mr Bodh Raj Bali amidst slogans like Azad Hindustan Zindabad. Speaking on the occasion, Mr Bali assured that party stands committed to the high ideals of secularism, socialism and democracy and appealed the people to maintain communal harmony at all costs. He said that need of the hour is to give a befitting reply to anti-national elements and others who are hell bent to disturb the traditional communal amity and peace in the State.

Choudhary Piara Singh, BJP chief whip in Legislative Assembly and MLA Gandhi Nagar constituency alongwith Mr Jaideep Sharma and Vinay Gupta hoisted the National Flag at SOS Balgram Children Village at Channi Rama, Trikuta Nagar, Ranibagh and Gidder Galian.

The people of these areas conveyed their heartiest greetings by Ch Piara Singh.

On Independence Day today, Thakur Hari Singh, general secretary Pradesh Congress Committee hoisted the National Flag at Gandhi Chowk, Satwari Jammu and remembered the sacrifices of freedom fighters.

Mr Tara Chand, MLA Chhamb and CLP leader also hoisted the National Flag at Khour. He paid rich tributes to freedom fighters, who laid down their lives to liberate India from foreign yoke.

Anil Chopra, member J&K Pradesh Congress Committee hoisted the National Flag at Main Bazar, Bakshi Nagar and Rajib Basti near Medical College. He highlighted the importance of this day for every Indian and asked the people to remain united to defeat the nefarious designs of enemy.

On the eve of Independence Day, a colourful function was held at PCC Headquarters Shahidi Chowk, Jammu and National Flag was hoisted by Mr Om Chopra, former MLA and president District Congress Committee Jammu Urban.

Flag hoisting ceremony was held at Marelia, R S Pura wherein Lala Isher Dass, Sarpanch unfurled the National Flag. Mr Darshan Raina, PCC member was the chief guest on the occasion.

Former Minister and president of Nationalist Congress Party Thakur Randhir Singh hoisted the National Flag at Valmiki Chowk, Indira Chowk, NCP, J&K Headquarters at Karan Market to celebrate 55th Independence Day.

Udhampur Congress Seva Dal celebrated the Independence Day by hoisting National Flag infront of Seva Dal Office. Col A J S Mehta, Chairman, J&K Congress Ex-Servicemen Cell was invited to attend the function.

Col Mehta after hosting the National Tri-colour asked the workers to remain united and face the menace of militancy boldly.

Independence day was celebrated in village Shemechak, block Marh by former general secretary of Pradesh Congress Committee Mrs Lakshmi Datta. A large number of villagers took part in the function and pledged to serve their country whole heartedly and to fight with all the political parties who are trying to cash votes on religious bases.

The I-day was celebrated with great enthusiasm and national fervour at Reasi. The celebrations started with Snehani Vandan by Tehsil Information Centre, Reasi and Parbhat Pheries were taken out by the political and social organisations.

The main function was held near Higher Secondary School, Reasi wherein National Flag was hoisted by Sub-Divisional Magistrate Reasi Mr Laj Ram Chadyal and took salute of march past presented by the contingents drawn from CRPF, IRP, JKP and NCC.

Glowing tributes were paid to martyrs who laid down their lives for the freedom of the country. The SDM exhorted the people to work with dedication to strengthen the spirit of patriotism and communal harmony which is the need of the hour.

Mr Chuni Lal Khajuria, Deputy Chairman J&K State Legislative Council hoisted the National Flag at National Conference party headquarters Udhampur.

Addressing the gathering, Mr Khajuria appealed the party functionaries and workers to work for the welfare and upliftment of the poor and weaker sections of the society.

The 55th I-day of the nation was also celebrated by J&K People’s United Front at party headquarters under the chairmanship of Mr Sukh Dev Singh.

The party hoisted the National Flag and paid rich tributes to the freedom fighters who sacrificised their lives for the independence of the country.

On the eve of I-Day, Mr Rajinder Singh, senior vice-president of city Congress committee unfurled the National Tri-colour at Purani Mandi.

Speaking on the occasion, Mr Lal Muni Sharma, district president expressed his gratitude to those martyrs who sacrificised their lives for the Independence of the country.

Independence day was celebrated by Peoples Democratic Party, District Udhampur. The flag hoisting ceremony was performed by district president Mr Surinder Singh.

A flag hoisting ceremony was held at Chief Education Officer’s office, Udhampur on the eve of I-Day. The National Flag was hoisted by Mr Prem Nath Darahi, president SC/ST Cell Udhampur.

Speaking on the occasion, he stressed on the need of national integration and asked the people to follow the path shown by freedom fighters.

J&K National Panthers Party, Vijaypur celebrated Independence Day under the chairmanship of block president Mr Rajesh Pargotra in which workers and other prominent citizens took part.

After hoisting the Tri-colour, Mr Pargotra congratulated the people on this day and appealed them to remain united for the upliftment and development of the country.

Independence Day was celebrated in District Jail Jammu with full honour in the presence of security personnel and inmates.

Mr Saleem Ahmad Beg, Superintendent of the Jail unfurled the National Flag and in his address stressed upon the hardwork, honesty and devotion towards the job that cane be the major contribution towards nation building.

Colourful cultural items were also presented by the inmates in the presence of offices which included Deputy Superintendent Mr J C Kotwal and Mr Kaka Ram, Dr Vipin Sudan, Senior Medical Officer, Dr Bharat Bhushan, Assistant Superintendents Mr J L Pandita, Mr Raghubir Singh, Mr Bishamber Dass and Mrs Subash Kumari.

Independence Day was celebrated with great pomp and show at Ramban. The National Flag was hoisted by Additional Deputy Commissioner, Ramban Mr J S Medi and took salute from the contingent of police and students of 15 schools.

The children also presented various cultural programmes on the occasion wherein MLA Ramban besides other Government officers were also present.

Flag hoisting ceremony was held in the premises of main Telephone Exchange Udhampur with great fervour and show. TDM Udhampur hoisted the National Flag in the presence of all telecom employees.

Guard of honour was presented by the security agencies and speakers emphasised on the need of national integration and dedication towards nation building.

Mr Dhanraj Bargotra, president Janata Dal (S) unfurled the National Flag at party headquarters on the eve of Independence Day.

He said that the whole country passing through great economical crises and national security is in danger due to the militancy. He appealed the people to remain united to defeat the nefarious designs of enemy.

Mrs Swarn Lata, former MLA hoisted the National Flag in a function organised at Samba to celebrate the Independence Day. Addressing the gathering, she stressed on the need for maintaining peace and keeping the vigil on the anti-national elements.

Jammu and Kashmir Awami Conference organised a grand function at Vijaypur block on the eve of Independence Day. The National Flag was hoisted by Prehlad Singh Sambyal, provincial president of Awami Conference.

Speaking on the occasion, Mr Prehlad Singh paid tributes to the martyrs, freedom fighters and other hero’s who laid down their lives for the Independence of the country.

Independence Day was celebrated with great enthusiasm and patriotic spirits by District Youth Congress Committee. The National Flag was unfurled by Mr Sanjeev Gupta, president Youth District Congress Committee.

Mr Daya Krishan Kotwal, state president of Bhartiya Janata Party unfurled the National Flag at Patoli Chowk on the eve of Independence Day. The function was performed with great pomp and show.

Mr Sardari Lal Mehra, district chief of Congress-I Seva Dal Urban-Jammu unfurled the National Flag at Mohalla Prem Nagar. He also spoke on the occasion and highlighted the importance of day for every India.

NGAGA to hold protest on August 20

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Aug 15: Non-Gazetted Agriculture Graduates (NGAGA) convened a general body meeting of all Junior Agriculture Assistants under the presidentship of Mr Rajesh Langer.

According to a press release, it was unanimously decided in the meeting that one day protest demonstration will be held at Direction Office Agriculture Complex (Krishi Bhawan), Talab Tillo on Monday August 20 against the discriminatory attitude of authorities towards Junior Agriculture Assistants such as non-transparent policy of transfers, paying of forcible recoveries of left over inputs by Junior Agriculture Assistants and etc.