Poonch, Aug 14: Ahead of 79th Independence Day celebrations, Javed Ahmed Rana, Minister for Jal Shakti, Forest, Ecology & Environment, and Tribal Affairs, has extended his warm and heartfelt greetings to the people.According to a statement issued here, paying homage to the countless freedom fighters who made supreme sacrifices in the struggle for independence, the Minister reiterated that the celebrations are a solemn reminder of our duty to uphold and defend the constitutional values of Justice, Liberty, Equality and Fraternity, which are so crucial to out freedom.“As we celebrate our hard-won freedom, let us reaffirm our unwavering commitment to the ideals of pluralism, diversity, and secularism that formed the bedrock of our national movement for independence,” Rana said in his Independence Day message.Underscoring the unity of India, the Minister emphasized that “Unity in Diversity” remains the cornerstone of India’s democratic ethos and that every citizen has a fundamental responsibility to resist any form of authoritarianism, discrimination or injustice that threatens the inclusive character of the nation.“Let us stand together to preserve our democratic institutions, protect civil liberties and promote a society rooted in social justice, equality, and mutual respect. Only then can we truly work toward building a just, inclusive, and harmonious future,” he added.Rana also stressed the importance of ensuring environmental sustainability and ecological justice as part of the broader national vision for progress. As part of the official Independence Day celebrations, Rana will hoist the National Flag and take the ceremonial salute at the district-level function in the border district of Poonch on August 15, 2025. “Our constitutional commitment to socio-economic and environmental justice must guide policymaking and governance, ensuring that no segment of our society is left behind,” he stated.