Excelsior Correspondent
POONCH, Nov 22: The final event of the ‘Poonch-Day Celebrations 2025’ was held today at Natu Auditorium, Poonch and was presided over by the GOC, White Knight Corps.
The ceremony marked the culmination of a month-long series of activities conducted across the district to commemorate the 78th anniversary of the historic military link-up of 1948, when the Indian Army and the resilient people of Poonch jointly overcame a 15-month siege to secure the town’s freedom.
Addressing the gathering, the GOC, White Knight Corps, highlighted the enduring bond between the people of Poonch and the Army, describing the day as a tribute to courage, unity and an unbroken legacy of sacrifice.
In the run-up to the final day, a wide range of humanitarian and community-centric initiatives were undertaken throughout the district. Medical Camps were organised at multiple locations, providing essential healthcare to large numbers of residents. A district-wide drug awareness rally, with enthusiastic participation from school students, reinforced the message of a drug-free society. Ration distribution drives supported underprivileged families, while tree plantation drives across several locations reflected a shared commitment to environmental conservation and a greener Poonch.
A Central Blood donation drive emerged as one of the major highlights, with both combatants and civilians participating wholeheartedly. To encourage young talent, a Talent Hunt Competition and an Arts & Science exhibition were conducted, giving students a platform to display their creativity, innovation and artistic abilities.
Several young performers expressed their excitement at being part of the celebrations.
In his message to the participants, the GOC, White Knight Corps, remarked that the talent hunt was more than just a competition—it symbolised unity, shared aspirations and the collective dreams of the people, adding that such initiatives play a vital role in bringing communities together.
As part of this year’s celebrations, a significant humanitarian effort was undertaken through the Artificial Limb Fitment Camp held from Nov 13 to 15. Organised by Pritam Spiritual Foundation and Bhagwan Mahavir Viklang Sahayata Samiti in collaboration with the Indian Army, the camp assisted over 200 differently-abled individuals, providing them with artificial limbs, wheelchairs, crutches and other mobility aids—offering renewed dignity, confidence and a hopeful new beginning.
