Shahid Peer
Trehgam: As part of the ongoing celebrations marking 80 years of independence, a special programme titled “My Watan Mera Chaman” was jointly organised today by Iqbal Memorial Institute and the Civic Research and Development Foundation at Trehgam, Kupwara. The programme aimed to promote patriotism, national unity, awareness about the freedom struggle and the values of sacrifice among students, while encouraging them to contribute to the development and progress of the country.
During the programme, students presented a variety of activities based on the theme of patriotism, including patriotic songs, speeches, skits and other cultural performances. The performances were highly appreciated by the audience, who praised the students for their creativity, enthusiasm and patriotic spirit.
An art competition on the theme “Nation, Freedom and Sacrifice” was also organised. Students expressed their thoughts and emotions through artwork depicting the freedom struggle, love for the nation and the sacrifices made for the country’s independence.
Youth leader Tahir Saeed, who attended the programme as the chief guest, said in his address that independence had been achieved through immense sacrifices and a long struggle. He said it was now the collective responsibility of every citizen to contribute towards building a better, peaceful, prosperous and developed nation.
He said that children and young people are the real assets and future of any nation. The responsibility of leading the country in the coming years will rest on their shoulders, making it essential to equip them with education, character, a sense of responsibility and a spirit of national service. He urged the students to use their talents positively, excel in different fields and contribute towards building a developed and prosperous India.
Tahir Saeed also planted a sapling on the school premises in memory of all the known and unknown freedom fighters who contributed to India’s freedom struggle. The plantation was presented both as an act of environmental responsibility and as a reminder of the nation’s history and sacrifices.
Social activist Azad Naqashbandi, who was also a special guest, addressed the gathering and urged students to pursue their education with discipline, humanity, tolerance, mutual respect and a commitment to serving society and the country.
Writer and journalist Ashraf Chiragh also shared his views on the freedom struggle, national unity and the role of youth in nation-building. He urged students to understand their history and remain aware of the sacrifices that paved the way for independence so that they could fulfil their responsibilities towards society and the country in the future.
On the occasion, School Chairman Bilal Rizwan and Pir Azhar, founder of the Civic Research and Development Foundation, also addressed the gathering and highlighted various aspects of patriotism, education and the role of youth. They emphasised that educational institutions are not merely centres of learning but also play an important role in shaping the character, values and sense of national responsibility of the younger generation.
A large number of members of the local Auqaf Committee, representatives of civil society, teachers, students and local residents attended the programme.
