Jwalamukhi: Independence Day was celebrated with great enthusiasm and patriotic fervour in Jwalamukhi on August 15. The main function was organised at the Government Senior Secondary School ground, where Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM) Dr. Sanjeev Sharma unfurled the National Flag as the Chief Guest and inspected the parade.
The ceremony was attended by Sub-Divisional Police Officer Sanjay Sharma, Tehsildar Jwalamukhi Kashmir Singh, Madam Ritu Rattan, Municipal Council Jwalamukhi President Som Kiran Sharma, Vice-President Dipti Sharma, Naib Tehsildar, Station House Officer, officers from various departments, school principals, teachers and a large number of students.
SDM Pays Tribute to Freedom Fighters
Addressing the gathering, SDM Dr. Sanjeev Sharma extended warm Independence Day greetings to the people and paid rich tribute to the freedom fighters whose sacrifices made India's independence possible.
Recalling India's long freedom struggle from 1857 to 1947, he highlighted the contributions of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose, Shaheed Bhagat Singh, Chandrashekhar Azad and Mahatma Gandhi, among numerous other freedom fighters.
He said the freedom fighters not only secured independence for the country but also left behind ideals, values and principles that continue to guide the nation. He urged the younger generation to preserve these values and incorporate them into their daily lives.
India’s Remarkable Journey Since Independence
Dr. Sharma said that the progress India has made since 1947 is a matter of pride for every citizen. From facing severe challenges at the time of Independence to emerging as one of the world's leading economies, India's journey has been built on the collective efforts, sacrifices and hard work of generations.
He said that although the country is now entering an era of advanced technology and Artificial Intelligence, human effort, discipline, dedication and hard work remain essential for achieving lasting success.
“Technology can assist us, but it cannot replace the value of human effort and perseverance,” he emphasised.
Message of Hard Work, Discipline and Dedication
The SDM's address particularly focused on motivating students and youth. He said that success does not come overnight and that every major achievement requires consistent effort.
Drawing an analogy with a student's journey from the first class to higher education, he said life also requires people to move forward step by step. Hard work, dedication, discipline and patience, he said, are the real stepping stones to success.
He encouraged young people to use social media and Artificial Intelligence constructively, while ensuring that technology does not replace their own efforts and creativity.
Referring to the inspirational philosophy of former President and renowned scientist Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam, he stressed the importance of transforming good thoughts into meaningful action.
Focus on Good Values and Respect for Others
Dr. Sharma also appealed to parents to provide children with good संस्कार, values and a strong sense of responsibility.
He said a healthy society can only be built when people maintain the same standards of values for themselves and others. Respect for elders, affection towards younger people and equal treatment of every individual are essential for a progressive society, he added.
He urged students to become responsible citizens and responsible youth, with love for the country and respect for people around them.
Appeal to Stay Away from Drugs
Expressing concern over the growing spread of drug abuse in society, the SDM urged parents, teachers and community members to work together to protect young people from addiction.
He said drug abuse affects not only individuals but also families and society as a whole. Young people must be encouraged towards education, sports, constructive activities and a healthy lifestyle.
He emphasised that a healthy, disciplined and responsible youth population is the foundation of a strong society and a developed nation.
Himachal Pradesh’s Development Also Highlighted
Dr. Sharma also highlighted Himachal Pradesh's development journey, saying that the state has made significant progress in areas such as education, healthcare, roads and other essential services.
He said the progress of Himachal Pradesh has been possible because of the hard work, discipline and contribution of its people.
He emphasised that administrative systems and public institutions can function effectively only when citizens also understand and fulfil their responsibilities.
“The kind of people we are will determine the kind of society we create,” he said, urging everyone to contribute positively to society.
NCC, NSS and Scout-Guide March Past Draws Applause
The march past by NCC cadets, NSS volunteers and Scout-Guide contingents from various schools was one of the major attractions of the Independence Day celebrations.
The participating contingents marched smartly in formation before the Chief Guest and saluted the National Flag, displaying discipline, coordination and patriotic spirit.
The impressive parade added to the festive atmosphere and was widely appreciated by those present at the venue.
Call to Build a Stronger Nation
Concluding his address, SDM Dr. Sanjeev Sharma wished the students a bright and successful future. He said today's children would become tomorrow's administrators, doctors, engineers, judicial officers and professionals in various fields and would carry the responsibility of taking the country forward.
He urged the youth to draw inspiration from the sacrifices of the freedom fighters and pursue their goals with hard work, patience, dedication and discipline.
The Independence Day celebration in Jwalamukhi thus conveyed a strong message of patriotism, social responsibility, good values and nation-building, reminding everyone that the true meaning of freedom lies in contributing positively to the progress and well-being of the country.