Early Times Report JAMMU, Aug 16: On the occasion of the 80th Independence Day, Rajya Sabha Member of Parliament Engineer Gulam Ali Khatana hoisted the National Flag at various places in Jammu and paid rich tributes to the freedom fighters and martyrs who made supreme sacrifices for the country. The flag-hoisting ceremonies witnessed patriotic fervour, with participants reaffirming their commitment to the unity, integrity and progress of the nation. Khatana said Independence Day was not merely a celebration but also an occasion to remember the sacrifices that secured freedom for the country. He stressed that every citizen must discharge their responsibilities sincerely to protect the hard-earned freedom and contribute towards building a stronger, prosperous and self-reliant India. He said that under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the country was moving rapidly towards development and self-reliance, while Jammu and Kashmir had also witnessed renewed momentum in infrastructure, connectivity, tourism, employment and other key sectors. The Rajya Sabha MP called upon the youth to play an active role in nation-building by focusing on education, skill development and constructive participation. He stressed that ensuring peace, development, employment opportunities and a brighter future for the younger generation of Jammu and Kashmir must remain a collective priority. Khatana said the National Flag symbolises the unity, sovereignty and national spirit of India. Extending his greetings to the people on Independence Day, he called for collective efforts to strengthen peace, prosperity, national unity and democratic values. People from different sections of society participated in the celebrations and saluted the Tricolour, reaffirming their commitment to the unity, integrity and progress of the nation. |