ANANTNAG, AUGUST 15: Minister for Health and Medical Education, Social Welfare and Education, Sakeena Itoo today hoisted the National Flag at Shaheed Himayun Muzammil Memorial Government Degree College Boys here to mark the 79th Independence Day celebrations.
On the occasion, the Minister inspected the parade and took salute from the contingents of various wings of J&K Police, CRPF, NCC Cadets and school children who marched past the podium. In her address on the occasion, the Minister said that this freedom is a very precious gift that has been achieved with great difficulty for which our elders and forefathers have given countless sacrifices. She added that on this remarkable day we remember those great martyrs who have sacrificed their lives for the country and who have given us this freedom we are living today.
The Minister further said that this freedom of the nation reminds us that we should value our freedom and work together for the progress and prosperity of our country. She added that we should respect the constitution , laws and regulations of our country and work together on this. The Minister, in her address also remembered the contribution of Sher-i-Kashmir Sheikh Muhammad Abdullah in keeping the people of Jammu and Kashmir united to build the dream of a new Jammu and Kashmir. She added that he contributed in every sector of society, particularly health sector, education sector and agriculture sector.
She highlighted that under the leadership of Chief Minister, Omar Abdullah, the cabinet passed the resolution for the restoration of Statehood, adding that the Home Minister of India in the Parliament has made a commitment that Jammu and Kashmir will get back its state status. “Statehood restoration is not a favour for Jammu and Kashmir but the right of the people of Jammu and Kashmir, a genuine right”, she stated.