Kupwara : The Republic Day celebrations were held with zeal and patriotic fervor at the Parade Ground, District Police Lines (DPL) Kupwara. The event, attended by approximately 7,000 citizens from all walks of life, was a display of unity and national pride.
The Chief Guest, District Development Council (DDC) Chairman Kupwara, Shri Irfan Pandit Puri, unfurled the National Flag and took the salute at an impressive March Past. The ceremony was graced by the presence of Deputy Commissioner Kupwara, Smt. Ayushi Sudan-IAS, SSP Kupwara, Shri Ghulam Jeelani Wani -JKPS, and other civil and police officers. The event commenced with dignitaries laying wreaths at the Martyrs’ Memorial to honour the bravehearts who sacrificed their lives for the nation. This was followed by the unfurling of the National Flag and an inspiring speech by the Chief Guest, who highlighted the importance of patriotism, unity, and collective efforts for nation-building.
The parade was commanded by Insp Shafaat Ahamd and March Past featured contingents from the District Police, including Women’s, Men’s, and SPO contingents, along with contingents from CRPF (98 Bn and 162 Bn), IRP 4th Battalion, VHG, and the Forest Protection Force and seven contigents from various schools across the district. The tableau parade showcased vibrant and creative displays from various government departments, reflecting their achievements and contributions to the district’s development.
The celebrations also included a colorful and patriotic cultural programme featuring patriotic songs, captivating local folk performances, skits, and a martial arts display, which enthralled the audience.
The event concluded with a prize distribution ceremony where police and civil officers and officials were recognized for their outstanding contributions. The Cheif Guest and Deputy Commissioner Kupwara presented appreciation awards, certificates, and mementos to them. SSP Kupwara distributed special prizes which included certificates and cash rewards of ₹5,000 to each school parade contingents and student groups who participated in the cultural programme, to boost their morale and encourage further participation.
The event also witnessed the participation of ADC Kupwara, Additional SP Kupwara, ACR Kupwara, DySP PC Lolab, DySP DAR Kupwara, DySP Headquarters Kupwara, Tehsildar Kupwara, and other senior officers from police and civil administration.
In addition to the main function, the National Flag was also unfurled across all district police establishments, including the District Police Office (DPO), police stations, and other units, to mark the occasion with reverence and unity.