In a vibrant display of patriotism, the city of Palanpur in Banaskantha district has organised a grand flag march to celebrate India’s Independence Day. This event took place under the theme ‘Har Ghar Tiranga, Har Ghar Swachhta,’ which translates to ‘Every Home a Flag, Every Home Cleanliness.’ The celebration was filled with slogans like ‘Bharat Mata Ki Jai’ (Victory to Mother India) and ‘Vande Mataram’ (I Bow to Thee, Mother).
The flag march was led by the district administration and started from the Police Headquarters in Palanpur. The procession covered approximately 3 kilometers, passing through key locations such as Gathaman Gate, Guru Nanak Chowk, and ending at the Collector’s Office. A remarkable 1,000-foot-long national flag was the highlight of the event, attracting a lot of attention. Law enforcement officers participated with pride, accompanied by a police band, a bike rally, and a cavalry platoon. Citizens joined in by waving the national flag, chanting patriotic slogans, and cheering for the marchers. The enthusiasm from the public was overwhelming, with many citizens applauding and welcoming the procession as it passed by.
In preparation for the Independence Day celebrations, the district collector, Mihir Patel, chaired a meeting to ensure smooth execution of the ‘Har Ghar Tiranga’ campaign. This year, the theme for the Independence Day celebrations is ‘Celebrating Freedom with Cleanliness.’ The campaign aims to instil a sense of pride and honour for the national flag among the people of Banaskantha.
The collector announced that the celebrations will occur in three phases. The first phase includes a competition for students to write letters to the armed forces on the topic of ‘Operation Sindhur.’ Additionally, quizzes will be conducted in all schools through the MyGov portal, and municipal bodies will carry out wall paintings to promote the campaign.
From August 9 to 12, the second phase will involve flag marches in all talukas and the district level. Iconic locations like Nadbait and Ambaji will also host grand flag marches. The main district-level flag march will commence from Palanpur on August 12. Alongside the marches, various cleanliness campaigns, hand wash demonstrations, cleanliness pledges, and rallies will be organised with support from the District Rural Development Agency and all municipalities.
The third phase, from August 13 to 15, will feature flag hoisting ceremonies in all schools, cultural programs, and a ‘Selfie with the Flag’ initiative, culminating in the Independence Day celebrations. The aim is to strengthen the feelings of pride and honour for the national flag and the country among the people. The collector has urged all citizens to participate actively in these celebrations, ensuring that the events are conducted with great enthusiasm and respect for the flag.
The ‘Har Ghar Tiranga’ campaign is not just about displaying the flag; it’s also about fostering a spirit of unity and cleanliness in the community. It aims to remind everyone of the sacrifices made for freedom and the importance of maintaining a clean and beautiful environment for future generations. The celebrations in Banaskantha are a testament to the spirit of patriotism and the commitment of its citizens to honour their country. As the nation prepares for Independence Day, the excitement and anticipation in Banaskantha are palpable, with everyone looking forward to celebrating their freedom with pride.