Chandigarh Celebrates Independence Day with Security and Pride

Chandigarh, Aug 15 (PTI) Punjab, Haryana, and their shared capital, Chandigarh, marked Independence Day on Friday, with stringent security in place. Flag-hoisting ceremonies were organized at district headquarters and other venues, as per officials. In Chandigarh, Punjab Governor and Union Territory Chandigarh Administrator Gulab Chand Kataria hoisted the national flag, while Haryana Governor Ashim Kumar Ghosh did the honors in Ambala. Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann presided over a state-level event in Faridkot, unfurling the tricolour, and his Haryana counterpart Nayab Singh Saini raised the flag in Rohtak. The day was a time to remember the freedom fighters who significantly contributed to India's fight for Independence. Students across various educational institutions showcased their talent through physical exercises and vibrant cultural performances, highlighting the region's rich culture and heritage. During the state-level event in Faridkot, Punjab CM Mann inspected the parade and took the salute from the march past, with key officials like Punjab Chief Secretary K A P Sinha and Director General of Police Gaurav Yadav in attendance. Mann, in his address celebrating the 79th Independence Day, honored martyrs such as Bhagat Singh, Udham Singh, Sukhdev, and Lala Lajpat Rai for their contributions. He discussed his government's efforts, announcing the 'Mukh Mantri Sehat Bima Yojna' set to launch on October 2, providing Rs 10 lakh health insurance cover per family in the state. Incorporating all government hospitals and 552 private hospitals, the Punjab government aims to cover medical expenses under this scheme. Furthermore, he highlighted the operational 881 'Aam Aadmi Clinics' serving 70,000 patients daily, with plans to increase their count to 1,000 soon. On the education front, Mann announced the establishment of 'Schools of Eminence' in Punjab. He praised the AAP government's efforts that led Punjab to achieve the top rank in the National Achievement Survey on education, compared to the 29th position in 2017. Regarding the anti-drug initiative, Mann stated the government's stringent actions against drug smugglers, supported by the campaign 'Yudh Nashian Virudh' (war against drugs). He emphasized the formation of village defense committees to halt drug supplies. Mann also spoke about the deployment of anti-drone systems in border areas to thwart smuggling of drugs and weapons from Pakistan. The state has filled 55,000 government jobs on a merit basis in the past three years, he noted. Highlighting water management improvements, Mann mentioned that canal water utilization for irrigation rose from 21% to 63%, bringing canal and river water to village tail ends for the first time. Meanwhile, Haryana CM Nayab Saini extended his greetings on the country's 79th Independence Day. During the Rohtak event, he paid tribute to freedom fighters for their role in securing the nation's Independence. Punjab, Haryana, and UT Chandigarh ensured tight security for peaceful Independence Day celebrations.

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