A nation-wide event celebrating 75 years of India’s Independence-themed, ‘Azadi ka Amrut Mahotsav’ was launched by Lieutenant Governor R K Mathur on March 12 in Leh.

A cycle rally and a symbolic Dandi March were flagged off during the event. Commencing the 7500 trees plantation drive, L-G Mathur planted an apricot sapling at Raj Niwas.

Addressing the gathering, L-G Mathur said that every Indian today takes inspiration from the sacrifices of the freedom fighters of the country. He stated that the event is aimed to celebrate and reiterate the stories of their sacrifices. The celebration of “Azadi Ka Amrut Mahotsav” is to pay tribute to the martyrs by taking a pledge to make India a nation that they aspire for and to project the glory of ancient India and the progress of modern India.

LG Mathur said that despite having a rich civilization with a unique cultural heritage, development in Ladakh has always remained a challenge even post-independence due to its geographic remoteness, harsh climatic conditions, and connectivity issues. This, he added, has deprived Ladakh of the progress and development that they deserve. He asserted the fulfillment of the long-pending demand of Union Territory status for Ladakh by the Prime Minister of India would usher in a new beginning for the progress and prosperity of Ladakh.

Mathur said that the government is committed to connecting Ladakh to mainstream India, with improving road connectivity one of its major projects. He spoke of ongoing road and tunnel construction works on the national highways, including Zoji La and the completion of Rohtang La. He said that these projects would open better academic, job, and business opportunities and improve the living standards and income of the people of Ladakh. 

The Lt. Governor reiterated the commitment of the UT Administration to ensure a sustainable and progressive Ladakh. 

Chairman, LAHDC Leh, Tashi Gyalson shared that the event is a time to reflect the hardships the citizens of the country faced during the freedom struggle. He said that people should take a cue from Gandhi Ji and raise their voice against injustice and wrong-doings and walk on the path showed by him.

Member of Parliament, Ladakh, Jamyang Tsering Namgyal, highlighted the importance of the event and how the public suffered under British rule due to the heavy tax imposed on salt despite it being a necessary commodity. He shared how the Dandi March initiated by Mahatma Gandhi holds a special place in India’s history. 

MP also stated that the Azadi Ka Amrut Mahotsav is not a 75-week long celebration but rather a 25-year long movement till India completes a century of its independence from British rule. He urged all the people to take part in the movement.

Earlier, Administrative Secretary, Ravinder Kumar shared the activities to be held during the event, including Cycle Rally, Freedom Run, Symbolic Dandi March, Painting and Essay competition, and the plantation drive. Terming the event as a curtain-raiser for the celebration of 75 years of India’s independence, Administrative Secretary Ravinder shared the objective behind organising the event is to remember people who sacrificed their lives for the country.

Songs and a skit were performed by the Ladakh Cultural Academy Department and Housing and Urban Development Department, respectively, highlighting patriotism and the importance of keeping the environment clean.