Pioneer News Service
Lohardaga
On the occasion of Independence Day 2026, the district-level main function was held at the BS College Stadium in a grand atmosphere of patriotism and nationalism. Shilpi Neha Tirkey, Minister of Agriculture, Animal Husbandry, and Cooperation, inaugurated the ceremony by hoisting the national flag.
The stadium reverberated with the national anthem and chants of “Bharat Mata ki Jai.” In her address, the Minister stated that freedom is not only a right but also a responsibility. Independence Day provides an opportunity to remember the sacrifices of freedom fighters and introspect on our responsibilities towards the nation. It is the responsibility of the current generation to build the India of the dreams of those heroes who sacrificed everything to liberate the country.
She stated that India’s independence was not merely freedom from British rule, but also a pledge to provide respect, justice, and opportunity to the poor, farmers, laborers, tribals, Dalits, women, and youth. The Constitution laid a strong foundation for a democratic India based on justice, equality, and freedom.
She recalled the contributions of great leaders of the Constituent Assembly, including Dr. Bhimrao Ambedkar. Describing the struggle of tribal communities as an invaluable legacy of the freedom movement, the Minister said that great revolutionaries like Bhagwan Birsa Munda waged a decisive struggle against the British rule to protect water, forests, land, and self-respect. He described the Fifth and Sixth Schedules, PESA, and the Forest Rights Act as important provisions for protecting tribal interests. He said that by overcoming challenges, India has established a strong presence on the global stage. The country’s youth and technological capabilities are its greatest strengths. The Jharkhand government is committed to women’s economic independence, education, infrastructure, irrigation for farmers, animal husbandry, and youth self-employment. At the ceremony, 17 employees who achieved outstanding work were honored with certificates, shawls, and mementos. In the field of sports, Anshu Oraon, gold medalist in the Sub-Junior National Football Championship, Komal Oraon, silver medalist in the Khelo India Tribal Games Kabaddi Championship, and Sachin Oraon, bronze medalist, were honored.
