Jammu: Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Kumar Choudhary on Saturday hoisted the National Flag at M.A. Stadium here to mark the 80th Independence Day and called for the early restoration of statehood to Jammu and Kashmir, while urging youth to stay away from drugs and play an active role in nation-building.
The Deputy Chief Minister inspected the parade and took the salute from participating contingents.
Addressing the gathering, Choudhary paid tributes to freedom fighters and martyrs who sacrificed their lives for the country’s independence. He described the Tricolour as a symbol of sacrifice, unity, brotherhood and the collective aspirations of Indians.
He also lauded the Armed Forces, Jammu and Kashmir Police and other security agencies for their role in safeguarding the nation and maintaining peace in the Union Territory.
Highlighting India’s progress since Independence, the Deputy Chief Minister said the country had emerged as one of the world’s leading economies due to the contributions of farmers, soldiers, scientists, entrepreneurs and workers.
Referring to Jammu and Kashmir, he said the government was committed to balanced and inclusive development, with a focus on roads, bridges, power, drinking water, healthcare, education, agriculture and industry.
Choudhary said industrial growth and job creation remained key priorities and stressed that local youth should receive adequate opportunities in employment and entrepreneurship. He also referred to ongoing recruitment processes through the JKSSRB and JKPSC and expressed hope that vacancies would be filled at the earliest.
The Deputy Chief Minister said efforts were underway to improve access to quality education and strengthen healthcare infrastructure across Jammu and Kashmir.
Describing farmers as the backbone of the economy, he said the government was committed to supporting agriculture, horticulture and allied sectors through better facilities and income-enhancing measures.
Expressing concern over rising drug abuse, Choudhary appealed to young people to stay away from narcotics and criminal activities. He called on families, educational institutions and civil society to support the government’s campaign for a drug-free Jammu and Kashmir.
“The future of Jammu and Kashmir depends on the aspirations, determination and constructive participation of its youth,” he said, urging young people to channel their energies into education, sports, innovation and entrepreneurship.
The Deputy Chief Minister also stressed the importance of environmental conservation, citing increasing incidents of cloudbursts, floods and landslides. He urged people to actively participate in afforestation drives and support initiatives such as “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam”.
Referring to recent natural disasters, he said the government had taken prompt measures to restore connectivity and provide relief to affected families and assured continued assistance.
Choudhary also highlighted the region’s rich cultural heritage and said efforts were being made to promote Jammu and Kashmir’s art, culture, traditions and craftsmanship at national and international levels.
Speaking about the aspirations of people in the Jammu region, he called for equitable opportunities and representation for local youth and professionals and appealed to the Government of India to fulfil its commitment to restore statehood to Jammu and Kashmir at the earliest.
He said the government’s vision was to ensure quality education for every child, better opportunities for youth, prosperity for farmers and empowerment of women.
The celebrations featured colourful cultural performances by students from government and private schools showcasing patriotism, harmony and the rich cultural heritage of Jammu and Kashmir.
Members of Parliament Jugal Kishore Sharma and Sat Paul Sharma, MLAs Arjun Singh Raju, Khurshied Ahmed and Devyani Rana, Divisional Commissioner Jammu Ramesh Kumar, IGP Jammu Zone Bhim Sen Tuti and other senior civil and police officers were present on the occasion.
The Deputy Chief Minister also distributed awards among participants for their performances during the Independence Day celebrations.
