Srinagar, Aug 13 (TKM): In a vibrant display of patriotism and unity, full-dress rehearsals for the upcoming 79th Independence Day celebrations were held today across all districts of Kashmir, marking the culmination of weeks of preparation and offering a glimpse into the grand festivities set to light up the Valley on August 15.
At Srinagar, Divisional Commissioner (Div Com) Kashmir, Vijay Kumar Bidhuri hoisted the National Flag at Bakshi Stadium, inspected parade contingents, took salute at the march past, and addressed participants. Earlier, the Div Com paid floral tributes to martyrs at Balidan Stambh, Pratap Park, accompanied by IGP Kashmir V.K. Birdhi, DC Srinagar Akshay Labroo, and other senior civil and police officials.
Addressing the gathering, the Div Com highlighted the government’s developmental and socio-economic achievements, condemned the recent terrorist attack at Pahalgam, and lauded “Operation Sindoor” and “Operation Mahadev” as befitting responses to dismantle terror networks and deliver justice. He also praised civil and security agencies for the successful conduct of Hajj pilgrimage and the Shri Amarnathji Yatra despite prevailing challenges.
The event at Bakshi Stadium featured march pasts by contingents of BSF, CRPF, ITBP, SSB, JKAP, IRP, Women contingent, SDRF, Fire & Emergency, Forest Protection Force, NCC, Pipe and Brass bands, and school students, along with colourful cultural performances depicting patriotic fervor.
Similar rehearsals, marked by impressive parades and cultural presentations, were held at all district headquarters including Anantnag, Ganderbal, Kulgam, Shopian, Baramulla, Budgam, Pulwama, Kupwara, Bandipora, and their subdivisions.
District-level celebrations were led by Additional District Development Commissioners (ADDCs) and Additional Deputy Commissioners (ADCs) who hoisted the Tricolour, inspected parades by police, paramilitary forces, NCC cadets, and school contingents, and addressed gatherings on local developmental achievements and the significance of Independence Day.
The events also showcased vibrant cultural programmes, patriotic songs, and traditional dances, while district administrations emphasized public participation in the August 15 celebrations.
Senior officers from civil administration, police, and security agencies attended the rehearsals, which also featured strong security arrangements to ensure smooth conduct of the national event across the Valley.(TKM)
