Celebrating Independence Day: A Grand Ceremony in Chamba
Independence Day Festivities in Chamba
Subhash Mahajan
Chamba — The 79th Independence Day was marked with vibrant celebrations and a strong sense of patriotism at the historic Chaugan ground in Chamba. The ceremony was led by Harshvardhan Chauhan, the Minister for Industries, Parliamentary Affairs, Labour, and Employment, who hoisted the national flag and reviewed the ceremonial march-past.
The impressive parade included participants from various groups such as the District Police, Forest Department, Home Guards, NCC, NSS, and Bharat Scouts and Guides, showcasing both male and female contingents. Assistant Sub-Inspector Devendra Singh took the lead in the parade.
Minister Chauhan conveyed his Independence Day wishes to the residents of Himachal Pradesh, honoring the freedom fighters, courageous soldiers, and nation-builders who sacrificed their lives for the country’s freedom. He underscored the state government's dedication to comprehensive development under Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, emphasizing that Himachal Pradesh serves as a model for other hilly regions due to the effective execution of various welfare initiatives.
In his address, Chauhan highlighted the government's empathetic response to citizens affected by disasters, announcing a significant increase in relief assistance, which has been raised up to 25 times through a special package. He also shared notable developmental milestones in the aspirational district of Chamba, revealing that since January 2023, the Public Works Department has allocated ₹553 crore for infrastructure projects, including the construction of 167 km of new roads and the improvement of 175 km of existing roads.
Additionally, he mentioned that ₹239 crore is being invested under NABARD for 52 irrigation and drinking water projects, while three major initiatives worth ₹100 crore are currently in progress with funding from ADB and NDB. In the healthcare sector, the government has sanctioned ₹194 crore for the second phase of construction at Pt. Jawaharlal Nehru Government Medical College in Sarol.
Chauhan also extended his best wishes to pilgrims for the upcoming Shri Manimahesh Yatra, which is set to commence on August 16, marking an important pilgrimage in North India.
The event featured cultural performances by students and local groups, presenting patriotic songs, dances, and traditional art forms. During the ceremony, senior journalist Balkrishna Parashar, Hameed Khan, along with several departmental officials, employees, and social workers, were honored with commendation certificates for their exceptional contributions.
Among the distinguished guests were MLAs Neeraj Nayyar and Dr. Hansraj, former minister Asha Kumari, Thakur Singh Bharmouri, Agricultural Produce and Marketing Committee Chairperson Lalit Thakur, Deputy Commissioner Mukesh Repaswal, Superintendent of Police Abhishek Yadav, and numerous other notable citizens.