Jammu : Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Kumar Choudhary hoisted the National Flag at M.A. Stadium, Jammu, on the occasion of the 80th Independence Day and took the salute from the ceremonial parade.
He paid tributes to freedom fighters, martyrs, Armed Forces, J&K Police and security personnel and highlighted the government’s focus on balanced and inclusive development.
The Deputy Chief Minister said priority is being accorded to roads, bridges, power, water supply, healthcare, education, agriculture and industries. He stressed the need to create employment and entrepreneurship opportunities for local youth.
Expressing concern over drug abuse, he urged young people to stay away from drugs and criminal activities and participate in education, sports, innovation and entrepreneurship.
He also called for greater environmental protection amid increasing incidents of floods, landslides and other extreme weather events, and appealed to people to support afforestation initiatives.
Choudhary also reiterated the need for restoration of statehood and called upon people to work collectively for a peaceful, prosperous and developed Jammu and Kashmir.
