Early Times Report UDHAMPUR, Apr 15: The 135th birth anniversary of Bharat Ratna Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, the principal architect of the Indian Constitution, was celebrated with solemnity and enthusiasm at Ambedkar Chowk, (Jakhani Chowk), Udhampur. The event was organized by the Ambedkar Welfare Organisation (Trust), Udhampur, and witnessed the participation of several prominent political and social leaders. Minister Javed Ahmed Rana, Minister for Jal Shakti, Forest, Ecology & Tribal Affairs, graced the occasion as the Chief Guest. Besides Deputy Commissioner Udhampur Madam Saloni Rai Guest of Honor and Rattan Lal Gupta, Provincial President of Jammu and Kashmir National Conference Guest of Honor and Babu Rampal, former minister, Vijay Lochan, Chairman SC Cell, JKNC, Rakesh Singh Raka Vice President Central Zone were also present and paid floral tributes to Dr. Ambedkar. The event commenced with Bhim Vandana and the unfurling of the National Flag, followed by a welcome address, cultural performances, oratories, and addresses by the dignitaries. In his address, Javed Ahmad Rana paid glowing tributes to Dr. Ambedkar, hailing him as the principal architect of the Indian Constitution and a towering champion of social justice. He lauded Dr. Ambedkar's relentless efforts in laying the foundation of an egalitarian society based on the ideals of liberty, equality, and fraternity. Javed Rana emphasized the pressing need to preserve and propagate Dr. Ambedkar's vision in today's era to shape a more inclusive, just, and progressive India. He called for the creation of an environment where every citizen, irrespective of caste, creed, or background, enjoys equal rights and opportunities, as envisioned by Dr. Ambedkar. Deputy Commissioner Udhampur Madam Saloni Rai, highlighted the enduring relevance of Dr. Ambedkar's philosophy and reiterated the commitment of the Government to continue working for the upliftment of the marginalized and downtrodden sections of society Addressing the gathering Rattan Lal Gupta stated that the Omar Abdullah-led government is firmly committed to the upliftment of the downtrodden and underprivileged communities, and is taking decisive steps to ensure their meaningful participation in the socio-economic development of Jammu and Kashmir. He reaffirmed that inclusive growth, empowerment of the marginalized, and social justice are the cornerstone of the government's developmental agenda. Babu Rampal, senior National Conference leader and former minister, Vijay Lochan Chairman SC Cell and Rakesh Singh Raka Vice President Central Zone remembered Dr. Ambedkar's unparalleled contribution to the nation. They called upon the youth to follow the ideals of Dr. Ambedkar and become torchbearers of social reform and unity. They highlighted the importance of Ambedkar Jayanti as an opportunity to renew the collective commitment to social harmony and constitutional values. Earlier Chairman of the Ambedkar welfare organization (Trust) Udhampur highlighted the aims and objects of the Trust and welcomed Javed Ahmad Rana Honble Minister, Madam Deputy Commissioner Udhampur Madam Saloni Rai, Rattan Lal Gupta and other dignitaries of Udhampur. The programme concluded with a Vote of Thanks by Govind Ram Trustee and Preeti Bhoj, marking a fitting tribute to the legacy of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar. |