80th Independence Day Celebrated in Senapati

 Senapati, August 15, 2026 (DIO-IPR): The District Administration, Senapati, celebrated the 80th Independence Day with great enthusiasm and patriotic fervour today at the Senapati Public Ground, despite the emergency total shutdown called by the UNC.

The Deputy Commissioner of Senapati, Dharun Kumar S, IAS, Chief Guest of the occasion, hoisted the National Flag and received the ceremonial Guard of Honour from six parade contingents comprising the CRPF, IRB, Police Personnel (Men and Women), VDF and 16 Assam Rifles. The parade was commanded by D. Theingam Thangal, MPS, Sub-Divisional Police Officer, Senapati.

Following the National Anthem, the Chief Guest called upon the people of Senapati to uphold the spirit of unity in diversity, work collectively towards inclusive development and discharge their responsibilities as citizens with sincerity, integrity and commitment.

Addressing the gathering on the occasion, the Chief Guest recalled Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru’s historic speech and said that the freedom achieved through the sacrifices of the country’s forefathers was not merely an achievement but also a responsibility entrusted to future generations.

Highlighting the unique social and cultural diversity of Senapati, she said that the district’s five major tribal communities—Maram, Poumai, Mao, Thangal and Zeliangrong—represent distinct traditions, languages, customs and histories, yet remain united by a shared land and a common future. He observed that, just as different colours come together to complete a single fabric, the diversity of communities strengthens the collective identity of Senapati and reflects the broader spirit of India.

The Chief Guest stated that, for an ordinary citizen, the true meaning of freedom is experienced through access to opportunities. For children living in remote areas, he said, freedom means access to quality education, healthcare, roads and the opportunity to dream and pursue their aspirations. In this regard, he highlighted the importance of the EMRS schools at Oinam, Liyai and Yang Khullen, along with the proposed schools at Songsong, Willong and Chillivai-Phaibung Block. He stressed that a person’s future should not be determined by geographical distance from essential services and opportunities.

Highlighting various development initiatives, the Chief Guest said that interventions under PM JANMAN, PM DAJGUA and other government programmes are helping extend development to some of the remotest communities. She noted that interventions covering housing, education, healthcare, livelihood, roads and basic services are being undertaken for the Maram community and other tribal communities residing in the remotest parts of the district.

He also highlighted the completion of 13 Anganwadi Centres, housing support, livelihood initiatives and the approval of a 500-bedded residential hostel at various locations in the district, besides other infrastructure projects aimed at improving access to essential services.

He stressed that development should not be measured merely in terms of numbers, but by whether its benefits reach the village, the last household and those who face the greatest barriers to accessing opportunities.

On healthcare, the Chief Guest highlighted the proposed Senapati Super Speciality Hospital and Senapati Medical College, which has received State Cabinet clearance, as well as initiatives aimed at strengthening specialist healthcare and health research facilities in the district. She also mentioned the recently approved expansion of district hospital infrastructure and the sanction for institutional buildings at CHC Maram and CHC Tadubi.

He said that such projects would help reduce the hardships faced by patients and their families while creating greater opportunities for young people to study, work and serve their home communities.

Referring to community and cultural infrastructure, the Chief Guest highlighted various cultural halls, community buildings, association buildings, multi-utility facilities and other institutions being developed across the district which would help to preserve cultural heritage, strengthen traditional institutions and support community participation in development.

On the issue of drug abuse and illegal activities, the Chief Guest appreciated the continued efforts of the police and enforcement agencies in combating narcotics and illegal poppy cultivation, including the destruction of 27 acres of illegal cultivation. However, he stressed that enforcement alone cannot address the challenges faced by the youth.

He called for greater opportunities in education, skill development, employment, sports and entrepreneurship, stating that opportunity, purpose and hope are among the strongest safeguards for the future of young people.

Highlighting Senapati’s natural beauty, cultural heritage and youthful population, he said that the district has significant potential for sustainable tourism and local economic development. He mentioned festivals such as the Cherry Blossom Festival, Flower Festivals and State Level Barak Festival as important platforms for showcasing the district’s rich culture and promoting sustainable tourism.

Calling upon public servants to discharge their duties with integrity, without fear or favour and in accordance with law and public interest, the Chief Guest said that government programmes must reach the people and that public welfare should remain at the centre of administration.

Recalling the sacrifices and achievements of India’s freedom fighters and successive generations, the Chief Guest said that the country’s forefathers built institutions, strengthened democracy and laid the foundations of modern India despite immense challenges.

He called for an India that embraces technology and modernity while remaining rooted in its culture and values; an India that is economically strong, environmentally responsible, confident in the world and compassionate at home.

The Chief Guest urged the people of Senapati to translate the national vision into local action by building a district that is connected, prosperous, peaceful and inclusive, while protecting its forests, preserving its heritage and ensuring that every community has confidence in the future.

As part of the celebrations, the Band Party of 16 Assam Rifles presented an impressive musical drill and performance. Altogether, 89 awards and certificates were presented to outstanding government employees, police personnel and individuals in recognition of their exemplary achievements and contributions to society.

The programme concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Ngaonii Panii, Jr. MCS, SDC, Senapati, followed by the National Anthem and the National Song, Vande Mataram.

The 80^th Independence Day was also celebrated across the district at the Sub-Divisional Headquarters of Tadubi, Paomata, Purul, Songsong, Chillivai-Phaibung, Lairouching and Willong, where the Tricolour was hoisted by the respective Sub-Divisional Officers.

The programme was attended by Shaikh Mohd Zaib Zakir, IPS, Superintendent of Police, Senapati; Shanngam S, IFS, Divisional Forest Officer, Senapati; Adahrii Maheo, MCS, Additional Deputy Commissioner, Senapati; PP Ronald, MCS, Project Director, DRDA, Senapati; M.L. Kaisungbou, MPS, Additional Superintendent of Police (NH-2); District Level Officers, security personnel and members of the public.