Srinagar: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Saturday hoisted the National Flag at Lok Bhavan on the occasion of the 80th Independence Day and called upon citizens to work with integrity, strengthen inclusive growth and contribute towards building a self-reliant Jammu and Kashmir and a developed India by 2047.
A ceremonial police contingent presented the National Salute during the function.
Paying homage to freedom fighters, the Lieutenant Governor said Independence was achieved through immense struggle and sacrifice and urged citizens to uphold the values for which countless people laid down their lives. He also paid tributes to civilians who lost their lives in natural calamities this year.
“On this historic day, I join all citizens in paying heartfelt tributes to our founding fathers and the valiant sons and daughters of Mother India who sacrificed their lives for the country’s freedom. Let us strive to realise their cherished dreams of building a peaceful, prosperous Jammu and Kashmir and a great nation,” he said.
Sinha said the best tribute to martyrs and freedom fighters would be to safeguard the country’s hard-earned freedom through honesty, integrity and dedicated public service.
Expressing confidence in India’s rise as a global leader, the Lieutenant Governor stressed the need for an inclusive society that places public welfare above all else and extends support to the underprivileged.
He called for balanced growth, economic empowerment of women and greater opportunities for youth, saying these were essential for building a more humane and compassionate society.
“We must prioritise empowering women and youth, generating jobs and ensuring environmental sustainability,” he said.
Highlighting ongoing efforts in heritage conservation and environmental protection, Sinha said initiatives such as restoration of ancient monuments, revitalisation of heritage sites and large-scale afforestation reflected the administration’s commitment to sustainable development.
The Lieutenant Governor also urged citizens to actively contribute towards achieving the vision of a self-reliant Jammu and Kashmir and Viksit Bharat by 2047, while emphasising transparency and accountability in governance.
He congratulated J&K Police and CAPF personnel who were awarded gallantry medals on the eve of Independence Day and lauded sportspersons for bringing laurels to the Union Territory.
Sinha urged people to renew their commitment to nation-building and serve the country with greater dedication, sincerity and vigour.
