I-Day: KU VC calls for preserving values of justice, equality

Srinagar, Aug 15: The University of Kashmir (KU) on Friday hoisted the national flag at the main and satellite campuses with full honour and respect to celebrate the Independence Day marking 79 years of freedom.This year’s celebrations were held under the theme ‘Naya Bharat’, symbolising the nation’s vision of progress, innovation, and inclusive growth.Vice-Chancellor KU, Prof Nilofer Khan, led the flag-hoisting ceremony here at the Main Campus. The national anthem was sung while the national flag was being hoisted, followed by a ceremonial guard of honour presented by a contingent of the University police.Speaking on the occasion, Prof Khan said, “Independence Day is a celebration of our freedom and also a reminder of our responsibility to build a stronger, united and progressive nation. Let us work together to preserve the values of justice, equality, and harmony that form the foundation of our democracy.”The VC also condoled the sad demise of people who lost their lives in a cloudburst at Kishtwar on Thursday, expressing solidarity with the bereaved families and assuring that the University will try its best to help and support them in this hour of grief.She further felicitated members of the University Police, Proctorial Wing, and Watch & Ward staff for their commitment and dedicated service in ensuring the safety, discipline, and smooth conduct of campus activities.Dean Academic Affairs, Dean College Development Council, Dean Research, Registrar, Controller of Examinations, Dean Students Welfare, deans of schools, heads/directors/coordinators of departments/centres/institutes, officers of the administration, faculty, and other staff members participated in the ceremony.Post the flag-hoisting ceremony, the Vice-Chancellor led all the participants to the grand ceremony scheduled at the Bakshi Stadium, Srinagar.Meanwhile, the varsity’s satellite campuses at Anantnag, Baramulla, and Kupwara also celebrated the 79th Independence Day with patriotic fervour. Director North Campus, Dr Sheikh Ghulam Mohammad and Director South Campus, Prof Waseem Bari, led the flag-hoisting ceremonies at their respective campuses, witnessing overwhelming participation of officers from the administration, faculty, staff, and students.The University had organised a series of events under the ‘My Bharat, Viksit Bharat’ campaign to instil a sense of national pride and inspire future generations to protect India’s heritage by connecting with the land and honouring national heroes.