District Development Council (DDC) Chairperson, Syed Abdul Bari Andrabi, graced the event as the Chief Guest. He unfurled the National Flag and took the salute at the march-past, symbolising the district’s unwavering commitment to the ideals of the Constitution and the nation.
The event was attended by Deputy Commissioner Pulwama, Dr. Basharat Qayoom; SSP Pulwama, Tanushree, and senior officers from the Police, Army, Air Force, Paramilitary Forces and Civil Administration. Senior citizens, families of martyrs, social activists, students, youth, members of civil society organisations and a large number of the general public also participated in the celebrations.
While, among the elected representatives, MLA Rajpora, Ghulam Mohi-ud-Din Mir; Vice Chairperson DDC, and other DDC members were present on the occasion.
The march-past featured contingents from JKP, JKAP, Ladies Platoon, CRPF 182nd and 183rd Battalions, IRP 10th Battalion, Home Guards, Fire & Emergency Services, NCC Cadets, and students from various educational institutions.
The celebrations were further enriched by a vibrant array of cultural performances, including folk songs, Rouf, traditional dances, soulful music and santoor recitals. The performances beautifully reflected the region’s rich cultural heritage and were interwoven with the theme of the national song “Vande Mataram”, celebrating unity in diversity.
Addressing the gathering, the DDC Chairperson, highlighted the key developmental initiatives and welfare measures undertaken in the district. Highlighting the district’s key milestones, he informed that Block Ichegoza of Pulwama secured an impressive 2nd rank at the national level among 500 Aspirational Blocks in the Q4 (January–March 2024–25) Delta Rankings under the Aspirational Blocks Programme of NITI Aayog. He further stated that Pulwama district has been conferred with the National ODOP Award 2024 (Silver) for its outstanding efforts in realising the Hon’ble Prime Minister’s vision of Aatmanirbhar Bharat. “Pulwama district is on the path of continuous and sustainable development to preserve its magnificent cultural heritage and cultural sites”, said the Chairperson while highlighting the steps taken for the protection and restoration of the district’s cultural sites.
The event culminated with a felicitation ceremony, wherein parade contingents and cultural performers were appreciated for their contributions. Meritorious students, social activists, journalists, sports personalities and eminent personalities of the district were also acknowledged for their role in public service, while various officers and officials were felicitated for their outstanding dedication and service.
In a touching gesture of gratitude, families of martyrs from the Police and Paramilitary Forces, along with Next of Kin (NoKs) of victims of terrorism, were also felicitated, honouring their supreme sacrifice and unwavering commitment to the nation’s security. Their courage and resilience were hailed as a source of inspiration for the entire community.
On the similar lines, mega functions were also held at DPL Awantipora and Sub-Division Tral. Additionally, flag hoisting ceremonies were conducted across the district at Sub-Divisional Headquarters, Tehsil and Block Halqas, Panchayat Ghars, Kisan Khidmat Ghars (KKGs), District Administration offices, educational institutions, police stations and other Police and CRPF establishments.