Sovereignty ultimately rests with people, says Sakeena Itoo on R-Day

sameer
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26 Jan 2026

Anantnag, Jan 26: Minister Sakeena Itoo celebrated the 77th Republic Day by unfurling the national flag at Shaheed Himayun Muzzamil Memorial Government Degree College Boys. The event included a parade with contingents from CRPF, J&K Police, Home Guards, NCC, Fire & Emergency Services, students, and other security forces. She inspected the parade and took the salute, highlighting the importance of Republic Day as the day India adopted its Constitution, transforming into a democratic nation. In her speech, Itoo emphasized that sovereignty ultimately rests with the people. She highlighted achievements over the past 15 months, including government initiatives in health, education, social welfare, and infrastructure, noting that Jammu and Kashmir is witnessing a new era of development under the leadership of Omar Abdullah. She mentioned the effective implementation of welfare schemes like marriage assistance, old age pensions, widow pensions, and disability benefits, along with upgrades to health infrastructure, especially in rural and remote areas. Itoo spoke about the rapid transformation in healthcare, including the establishment of high-end medical facilities such as MRI, CT scans, and dialysis centers, along with increased staffing and accountability in health services. In education, she noted improved results in 10th and 12th grades, infrastructure upgrades, and a focus on digital learning and skill development. She also highlighted progress in agriculture and horticulture, including schemes supporting high-value crops like strawberries and lavender, and the recognition of local crafts like Pashmina shawls. She stressed the government’s youth-centric initiatives, including Mission Yuva, aimed at creating employment opportunities and making youth entrepreneurs. Tourism, which faced setbacks last year, is gradually recovering, and she urged citizens to visit and witness Jammu & Kashmir’s scenic beauty. Itoo raised concerns over rising drug abuse, calling on community leaders, parents, and teachers to join the fight against narcotics through awareness, enforcement, and rehabilitation. She lauded the role of youth in nation-building and encouraged students to pursue education, innovation, and social service while promoting peace and discipline. The celebration featured cultural performances and felicitations to winners of march-past and cultural events, with officials and public representatives participating actively. The event underscored the themes of unity, development, and hope for the future, reaffirming the government’s commitment to inclusive growth and social progress in Kashmir.