Officials reaffirm commitment to peace, prosperity, collective growth Srinagar, Jan 26: The 77th Republic Day was celebrated with immense enthusiasm, patriotic fervour, and community participation across the Kashmir division. From Srinagar to remote districts, a series of official events, flag unfurlings, parades, and cultural programmes marked the occasion, reaffirming the nation's unity, progress, and collective spirit. Srinagar In Srinagar, the main Republic Day ceremony took place at the Sher-e-Kashmir Cricket Stadium, attended by senior officials, civil society members, and a large public gathering. The event featured the unfurling of the national flag, the parade of contingents from security forces, and cultural performances that showcased Kashmir’s rich heritage. Similar functions were organized at district, sub-division, tehsil, and village levels across Kashmir, emphasizing inclusiveness and community involvement. Budgam  In Budgam district, the main event was held at the Sports Stadium, where Deputy Commissioner Dr Bilal Mohi-ud-din Bhat unfurled the national flag and took the march-past salute. The parade included contingents from JKP, JKAP, CRPF, Home Guards, school children, and local artists. The DC paid tribute to freedom fighters and highlighted ongoing development projects in the district. He praised the efforts of district officers in completing infrastructure projects like the new district hospital, primary health centers, roads, and educational facilities, emphasizing the district's inclusive growth. Cultural programs, including patriotic songs, folk dances, and tableaux, added vibrancy to the celebrations. Officers and officials were felicitated for their meritorious work. Bandipora  In Bandipora, the main function at S.K. Stadium was attended by Chairperson Abdul Gani Bhat, who unfurled the flag, inspected the parade, and took the salute from contingents comprising CRPF, police, NCC cadets, and school children. The event was marked by a lively performance by the Police Band and colorful cultural displays by students. The district administration highlighted developmental efforts in sectors like health, education, infrastructure, and women empowerment, reaffirming their commitment to inclusive growth. Kulgam  Kulgam’s celebrations centered at the District Police Lines, with Chairperson Mohammad Afzal Parrey leading the flag unfurling and march-past. The parade featured contingents from CRPF, J&K Police, NCC, and students. The district’s developmental achievements, including improvements in healthcare, education, roads, and rural infrastructure, were highlighted. The district was conferred the PM Award for outstanding performance in development indicators. Cultural programs, songs, and skits by students added to the festivities, and awards were distributed to meritorious individuals and departments. Baramulla  In Baramulla, Deputy Commissioner Minga Sherpa unfurled the tricolor at the DC Office, paying homage to freedom fighters and martyrs. He called for unity, peace, and collective effort towards building a prosperous district. The celebrations included a parade, cultural performances, and awards for best march-past and cultural programs. The district also organized flag hoisting ceremonies at various offices, schools, and Panchayat Gharas, emphasizing grassroots participation. Kupwara  Kupwara’s main event at the District Police Lines saw Chairperson Irfan Sultan Panditpori unfurl the flag, inspect the parade, and salute contingents from police, paramilitary forces, and students in vibrant tableaux depicting government schemes. The district’s achievements in infrastructure, health, and social welfare were highlighted by officials. Cultural programs by students and local artists reflected the district’s cultural richness. Awards recognizing excellence in various fields were presented, and families of martyrs were felicitated to honor their sacrifice. Similar celebrations unfolded at all subdivision and tehsil levels, including Handwara, Lolab, and Karnah, with flag hoistings and cultural events. Pulwama  In Pulwama, the District Police Lines hosted a grand celebration where District Development Council Chairperson Syed Abdul Bari Andrabi unfurled the flag and led the march-past. The event was attended by Deputy Commissioner Dr Basharat Qayoom, SSP Tanushree, and senior officials from Army, police, and civil administration. The celebrations included cultural performances, folk songs, and traditional dances, reflecting the district’s cultural heritage. The district’s notable achievements in health infrastructure, education, and social welfare were highlighted, with special mention of the district’s recognition as an Aspirational Block and recipient of the National ODOP Award. Families of martyrs and victims of terrorism were felicitated, paying tribute to their sacrifices. Ganderbal  Ganderbal celebrated at Qamaria Stadium, where Chairperson Nuzhat Ishfaq unfurled the national flag and led the parade involving contingents from CRPF, police, Forest Protection Force, and school children. The theme focused on ‘Vande Mataram’ and ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat,’ celebrating 150 years of the national song and India’s self-reliance. The event included cultural performances, tableau displays of government schemes, and awards for outstanding students, artisans, and social workers. The celebrations aimed to promote unity, patriotism, and developmental pride, with officials emphasizing the district’s progress in infrastructure, education, and rural development. Shopian  Shopian’s celebrations at the District Police Lines saw Chairperson Bilqees Jan unfurling the flag, inspecting the parade, and paying homage to freedom fighters and martyrs. The event featured cultural performances by school children and a felicitation ceremony honoring meritorious individuals and social workers. The district administration highlighted ongoing development projects and emphasized the importance of unity and active participation in nation-building. Similar flag-raising events and cultural programs were held across government offices, schools, and Panchayats throughout the district. Across Kashmir division, the 77th Republic Day celebrations underscored the collective pride, resilience, and developmental strides of the region. From grand stadiums to remote villages, communities participated actively in ceremonies that celebrated India’s democratic values, cultural heritage, and ongoing progress. Officials highlighted achievements in health, education, infrastructure, and social welfare, reaffirming their commitment to inclusive growth. The celebrations also paid homage to the sacrifices of freedom fighters and martyrs, inspiring citizens to work together for a stronger, united India. The day’s events left a lasting message of patriotism, peace, and hope for the future.