The Udhampur Campus (Garnai-Lotta) of the University of Jammu celebrated the 79th Independence Day with dignity and national pride, marked by eloquent speeches, literary expressions, and community participation, reinforcing the spirit of patriotism and unity. The celebrations commenced with the flag hoisting ceremony by Prof. Yash Pal Sharma, Rector, Udhampur Campus, in the presence of esteemed guests, faculty, students, and members of civil society. The event was followed by a patriotic rendition of the national anthem, creating an atmosphere of solemn reverence and national pride.
The event was graced by Ms. Shruti Awasthi, Director, IGNCA, Regional Centre Jammu, as the Chief Guest, while Colonel Sudeshwar Sharma, Shri Romesh Sharma (Treasurer, Volleyball Association, J&K), Dr. Harish Chander Dutt (Department of Botany, University of Jammu), and BDC Chairman Mr. Balwan Singh were present as special guests.
In her address, Ms. Shruti Awasthi paid homage to India’s freedom fighters and highlighted Mahatma Gandhi’s philosophy of non-violence and Maharshi Aurobindo’s vision of spiritual freedom. She encouraged the youth to take pride in India's rich cultural heritage by actively participating in local Duggar festivals such as Rutt Raade. Delivering a dynamic speech, Colonel Sudeshwar Sharma emphasized discipline, mental strength, and consistency as key to national progress. He advocated for exploring and embracing the beauty of India’s indigenous heritage over foreign aspirations.
Earlier, in his welcome address, Prof. Yash Pal Sharma underscored India’s historic legacy and the sacrifices made during the freedom struggle. He spoke of the nation’s transformation to a resilient global economy, powered by digital innovation, space exploration, and a growing startup ecosystem. Prof. Sharma reiterated the significance of national initiatives like Make in India, Self-Reliant India, Swachh Bharat, and Surakshit Bharat, and called for a collective effort towards a drug-free, just, and progressive India. Prof. Sharma also expressed his gratitude for the recent academic advancements and infrastructural development initiatives undertaken under the visionary leadership of Prof. Umesh Rai, Vice Chancellor, University of Jammu.
Shri Romesh Sharma reflected on the symbolic importance of Independence Day, while BDC Chairman Mr. Balwan Singh paid tributes to the sacrifices of Indian soldiers, urging unity in building a self-reliant nation with dignity and equal opportunity for all. Dr. Harish Chander Dutt stressed the need to tackle the menace of drug addiction, advocating for greater awareness, support, and community responsibility.
Adding to the sense of civic duty, a plantation drive was organized under the theme "Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam", dedicating each sapling as a tribute to motherhood and environmental consciousness.
The event also included a moment of silence and condolences for the victims of the tragic cloudburst in Chashoti village, Kishtwar district, honoring those who lost their lives and praying for the injured.
The programme was compered by Miss Kritika Sharma and Miss Mannat Sharma, and also featured student reflections on the true meaning of freedom, adding a personal and emotional dimension to the celebrations. The Independence Day event at the Udhampur Campus witnessed enthusiastic participation from students, faculty, non-teaching staff, and community members, culminating in a day that celebrated India’s past, recognized its present, and envisioned a brighter future.