Week-long district campaign sees wide public participation, promotes unity and patriotism
GANDERBAL, MARCH 30: The District Administration Ganderbal today joined the Union Territory-level valedictory function of the Special phase held to mark 150 years of the National Song ‘Vande Mataram’ from March 23rd to 30th, 2026.
The main function was held under the chairmanship of Hon’ble Lieutenant Governor, Manoj Sinha at Abhinav Theatre, Jammu, who presided over the function as the Chief Guest. The district administration participated in the programme through virtual conference.
Addressing the gathering, Hon’ble Lieutenant Governor paid rich tributes to the country’s freedom fighters and martyrs. He described ‘Vande Mataram’ as the eternal soul of the nation and a unifying force reflecting India’s diversity.
At Ganderbal, the programme was attended by Deputy Commissioner (DC) Ganderbal, Jatin Kishore; Additional Deputy Commissioner Syed Fahim Bihaqi, and other officers and officials. Participants witnessed the proceedings of the UT-level event, which highlighted the historical and cultural significance of the National Song and its role in India’s freedom movement. Cultural presentations and messages promoting unity and patriotism were also showcased.
Speaking on the occasion, the Deputy Commissioner said that such programmes help instill a sense of pride and belonging among citizens, especially the youth, and encouraged them to contribute positively towards nation-building.
Meanwhile, to commemorate the 150th year of ‘Vande Mataram’ and honour the sacrifices of freedom fighters, the District Administration Ganderbal organised a week-long campaign from March 23 to March 30 across the district, witnessing enthusiastic participation from students, youth, educational institutions and the general public.
The campaign commenced on March 23 with observance of Shaheed Diwas, during which tributes were paid to martyrs Bhagat Singh, Rajguru and Sukhdev at Mini-Secretariat Ganderbal and Sub-Division Kangan.
Exhibitions on the history and significance of the National Song and contributions of freedom fighters were held at Central University of Kashmir, SKUAST campuses, and various colleges and schools. Symposiums were also organised at Government Degree Colleges in Ganderbal and Kangan.
A district-level singing competition was also conducted during the week at Town Hall Ganderbal, drawing wide participation from students. Apart from this, essay writing and painting competitions were organised in schools across the district.
Similarly, youth seminars on the theme “Nationalism and Unity” were held on March 27 at ITI, Polytechnic Colleges and Government College of Engineering and Technology Safapora, where students actively engaged in discussions.
The week-long programme concluded today with a ‘Vande Mataram Unity Run’ from Duderhama to Mini-Secretariat Ganderbal, promoting a spirit of unity and collective pride. Public awareness programmes were also conducted across all blocks and Panchayat Ghars by the Rural Development Department.
During the campaign, town halls and government buildings were illuminated, selfie points were installed, and a media outreach campaign featuring short videos and informative content on the National Song was carried out.
During this special phase, daily mass singing of the National Song was held in all educational institutions with enthusiasm.
The week-long campaign saw enthusiastic participation from school and college students, youth and citizens of District Ganderbal.
