Bhatkal: The 79th Independence Day was celebrated with patriotic fervor and grandeur at the Taluk Stadium Ground, popularly known as YMSA Ground in Nawayath Colony, Bhatkal, on Friday, August 15.
After hoisting the national flag, Bhatkal Tahsildar Nagendra Kolashetty addressed the gathering, stressing that India’s freedom is founded on the principle of “unity in diversity.” He highlighted the nation’s remarkable progress in the fields of economy, science, technology, and healthcare since independence, while noting that poverty eradication, social divisions, and climate change remain pressing challenges that citizens must confront collectively.
The event was attended by Jali Pattan Panchayat President Afsha Qaziya, Vice President Imran Lanka, In-charge President of Bhatkal Town Municipal Council (TMC) Altaf Kharuri, former President Inayatullah Shahbandri, Taluka Guarantee Implementation Committee President Raju Naik, Taluk Panchayat Executive Officer Sunil M, In-charge Chief Officer of Bhatkal TMC Venkatesh Nauda, Jali Pattan Panchayat Chief Officer Manjappa, and CPI Manjunath A. Lingareddy, among others.
Bhatkal Block Education Officer Venkatesh Naik welcomed the gathering, while teacher Sridhar Shet compered the program. A spectacular march-past, led by PSI Naveen Naik and featuring police, NCC, and students from various schools, captivated the audience. Achievers in education, social service, and other fields were also felicitated on the occasion.
The program concluded with a breakfast reception hosted by the local social organization Majlis-e-Islah wa Tanzeem at the nearby YMSA Hall for officials.