OUR CORRESPONDENT
ITANAGAR: Celebrating the 'Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav', Arunachal Pradesh Governor Brig (Retd) Dr BD Mishra on Tuesday unfurled the national flag atop a grand 60-feet high mast at Tawang War Memorial, amidst cheers of the local citizens and army personnel.
The Governor dedicated the high mast flag to the nation, at a very dignified function organized by the 190 Mountain Brigade and sponsored by the Flag Foundation of India.
Speaking on the occasion, the Governor said that the national flag was a symbol of unity and integrity of the nation and it instilled the spirit of nationalism, sacrifice and fraternity amongst the citizens and was the acme of belonging and integration among them. The Governor said that during India's freedom struggle, flags had been instrumental in inspiring nationalist zeal and passion.
"On the occasion of Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav, let us pay our cherished respect to our national flag," he appealed.
Highlighting the history of the national flag of India, Mishra remembered the contribution of Sister Nivedita, Irish disciple of Swami Vivekananda, Madam Bhikaji Cama, Annie Besant, Lokmanya Bal Gangadhar Tilak and Pingali Venkayya, who were instrumental in the evolution of the national flag. He also recalled that on the advice of Mahatma Gandhi, the flag was made tricolour and the Indian Constituent Assembly adopted and added the Dharma Chakra into it with 24 spokes.
Recalling his participation in the first Independence Day celebration on August 15, 1947 as a Class V student, holding a paper-made national flag in his hand, the Governor elaborated the responsibilities of every citizen towards the national flag. He informed them about the drill and protocol of the adornment of the national flag and asked the people to abide by the laid down guidelines for its protocol.
Mishra commended all the ranks of 190 Mountain Brigade, under 4 Corps of Indian Army for construction of the magnificent high mast. He applauded the Flag Foundation of India for sponsoring the installation of the national symbol in the remote frontier State. He conveyed his appreciation to 10 Madras, 24 Sikh and 'Monpa Institute of Performing Arts' for presenting the cultural programme befitting the historical occasion.
Local MLA Tsering Tashi along with political leaders, Panchayat functionaries, government officials, NCC cadets and students also participated in the function.
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