The main function at Katra was held at the Shrine Board’s Sports Complex, where Chief Executive Officer, Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board, took salute at an impressive march-past by the contingents drawn from J&K Police, CRPF, NCC Boys and Girls, Scouts and Guides at the Sports Complex, besides the students of various educational institutions.
Speaking on the occasion, Ramesh Kumar greeted the people on this joyous occasion. He touched upon many current issues in the country from the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic to India's recent success at the Tokyo Olympics. He also applauded the achievement of Rakesh Kumar, Archer of Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board Sports Complex, Katra who have qualified for Tokyo Paralympics Games 2021 and brought laurels to the Country.
CEO contended the benefits of many government schemes initiated had now reached the doorsteps of people. He recalled and appreciated selfless services in general rendered in the COVID-19 by Doctors, Paramedical Staff, Sanitation Workers, Police and Paramilitary Personnel and in particular for regulation of yatra. The Chief Executive Officer also underscored the need for making untiring endeavours by one and all to carry forward the country on the path of rapid progress and prosperity.
The students of various educational institutions presented a colourful cultural programme on this occasion based on the theme of patriotism, national integration and awareness on COVID-19. Besides, a special tribute was also paid by one Vaishali Rajput to Lt. Padma Sachdev, a legendary figure and a doyen of Dogri literature
Ramesh Kumar gave away prizes and appreciation to the COVID Warriors, Social Workers and Students who were adjudged best in the march-past and presentation of cultural programme.
Among those present on the occasion were Vimal Indu, President, Municipal Committee, Katra; Vivek Verma, Additional CEO of the Shrine Board; Amit Bhasin, Addl. SP, Katra; Hem Kant Prasher, Chief Accounts Officer; Yad Ram Bunker, Commandant, 6th Bn. CRPF; Dr. Sunil Sharma, Dr. Jagdish Mehra and Vishavjeet Singh, Dy. CEOs, SMVDSB; Rajinder Singh, OSD; Anil Charak, Tehsildar, Katra, Managers, Engineers and staff of the Shrine Board. Others who participated in the function included Members of Municipal Committee, Katra, Civil, Police and Security Forces Officers, Prominent Citizens, Heads of various Educational Institutions, Media Persons, a large number of people of the area, teachers, school children and the pilgrims.
As part of the Independence Day celebrations, Ramesh Kumar, CEO, SMVDSB, also hoisted the tricolour at the Central Office of the Shrine Board at Katra. The national flag was hoisted by Naresh Kumar, SDM at Bhawan in the presence of CRPF, Police and Shrine Board officers and staff.
