Budgam: Deputy Commissioner Budgam Athar Aamir Khan on Sunday reviewed arrangements for the special phase of the 150-year commemoration of the national song Vande Mataram, even as Shaheedi Diwas was also observed across the district.
An official meeting in this regard was held under the chairmanship of the Deputy Commissioner to finalise preparations for the district-wide programme scheduled from March 23 to March 30, 2026.
During the meeting, it was informed that a series of activities would be organised across Budgam as part of the special phase celebrations to mark the historic legacy of Vande Mataram and to pay tribute to the martyrs of the nation on Shaheedi Diwas.
Reviewing the arrangements, the Deputy Commissioner stressed the historical significance of the 150-year commemoration, describing Vande Mataram as a powerful symbol of India’s freedom movement and national identity.
He directed all departments to ensure close coordination, proactive planning and enthusiastic participation for the smooth conduct of the scheduled events. He asked officers to organise a range of activities, including cultural programmes, patriotic events, awareness drives, student engagement initiatives and community outreach programmes in all blocks and panchayats of the district.
The Deputy Commissioner also stressed the need to involve youth, educational institutions and civil society so that the spirit of patriotism and national pride reaches the grassroots. He said the celebrations should be inclusive, vibrant and reflective of the aspirations of the people.
Reviewing logistical arrangements, he directed the concerned departments to ensure adequate infrastructure, proper publicity and smooth execution of all events. He also emphasised discipline and coordination to ensure the programmes are conducted in a befitting manner.
On the occasion, the Deputy Commissioner said such initiatives serve as a reminder of the country’s rich heritage, the sacrifices of freedom fighters and the enduring values of unity and integrity. He urged all stakeholders to work with dedication and commitment to make the celebrations a success.
Meanwhile, Shaheedi Diwas was observed by district officers in the conference hall of the DC office complex and also in educational institutions, offices and municipal committees across the district.
The Deputy Commissioner said the observance of Shaheedi Diwas holds profound importance as it commemorates the supreme sacrifices of the country’s freedom fighters, and called upon all departments to ensure that the day is marked with respect, dignity and patriotic zeal.
Among those present in the meeting were Additional Deputy Commissioner Budgam, Programme Officer ICDS, all SDMs, ACD, ACP, DIO, District Informatics Officer, CHO and other district and sectoral officers.
