dc Akash Bansal Hoists National Flag On 80th Independence Day At Kapurthala

Aug15,2026 | Jagrati Lahar Bureau | Chandigarh

*Pays rich tributes to freedom fighters and martyrs, Recalls Punjabis’ unparalleled sacrifices*

*Highlights Punjab Government’s development initiatives*

*Critical Care Block and Integrated Public Health Laboratory to be established in Kapurthala at a cost of Rs 17 crores*

*29 Aam Aadmi Clinics provide healthcare to over 3 lakh people*

*108 playgrounds and 26 gyms to promote sports among youth*

*Kapurthala, August 15*

On the occasion of the 80th Independence Day, Deputy Commissioner Akash Bansal on Saturday hoisted the National Flag and took the salute during the Independence Day parade held in local Guru Nanak Stadium.

Addressing the gathering in district level function, Deputy Commissioner paid rich tributes to Shaheed-e-Azam Bhagat Singh, Rajguru, Sukhdev, Shaheed Kartar Singh Sarabha, Madan Lal Dhingra, Lala Lajpat Rai, Shaheed Udham Singh and freedom fighters who made unparalleled sacrifices for the cause of India's independence. He said it was a matter of immense pride that Punjabis made the highest number of sacrifices during the freedom struggle and had always remained at the forefront of safeguarding the interests of the nation. He said their courage, patriotism and selfless sacrifices would always remain an eternal source of inspiration for generations to come. He said the nation would forever remain indebted to these brave souls, who laid down their lives for the freedom and sovereignty of the country. He also highlighted the unparalleled contribution of Punjabis in the freedom struggle and said that their sacrifices occupy a glorious place in the history of India's independence.

Highlighting the major development initiatives undertaken by the Punjab Government under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann in the district, the Deputy Commissioner said that 29 Aam Aadmi Clinics were currently operational in Kapurthala, where more than three lakh people had availed healthcare services. He said the district would soon have a Critical Care Block at a cost of Rs. 16 crores. The project would strengthen critical healthcare infrastructure and enhance secondary and tertiary healthcare services for residents of the district.

The Deputy Commissioner further said that an Integrated Public Health Laboratory would also be established in the premises of the Civil Hospital at a cost of Rs. 1 crore. The ultra-modern facility would provide comprehensive diagnostic services, including microbiology, virology, pathology and infectious disease testing, under one roof. He said that 32 Pind Clinics were being constructed across the district by the state government, primarily to provide healthcare services through teleconsultation. Of these, 14 clinics had already been inaugurated.

Speaking about initiatives to promote sports and youth fitness, the Deputy Commissioner said that 108 playgrounds were being developed in the district, of which 35 had already been dedicated to the people and the remaining playgrounds would be inaugurated soon. He said 26 gyms were also being established to promote fitness among youngsters and encourage greater participation in sports. These facilities would help keep the youth physically fit and motivate them to adopt a healthy and active lifestyle.

The Deputy Commissioner said that the District Bureau of Employment and Enterprises (DBEE) had provided assistance to 1,527 youths in securing employment, while 5,047 youths had benefited from career counselling services. He said the district administration was committed to creating more employment opportunities and equipping young people with the necessary skills and guidance to build successful careers. He also said that, to effectively address the issue of the stray dog population while ensuring public safety and animal welfare, an Animal Birth Control (ABC) Centre would be constructed soon in the district.

Highlighting about the ongoing anti-drug campaign Yudh Nashian Virudh, Deputy Commissioner Akash Bansal said that the Punjab Government and district administration were firmly committed to making Punjab, and Kapurthala in particular, free from drugs. He said the Yudh Nashian Virudh campaign was being implemented vigorously with the objective of completely eliminating the drug menace and transforming Punjab into a drug-free state.

Earlier, the Chief Guest took the salute from an impressive march past presented by contingents of the Punjab Police (Men and Women), Punjab Home Guards, NCC, Scouts (Boys and Girls) and other contingents. The parade was led by Parade Commander DSP Dr. Sheetal Singh. The march past was followed by a spectacular mass PT show featuring more than 900 students from various schools. Students from different educational institutions also presented a colourful and patriotic cultural program, adding to the spirit of the national celebration.

On the occasion, the Chief Guest also honoured the family members of freedom fighters including freedom fighter Prem Sagar and Veer Naaris Police personnel and participants who performed exceptionally well during the parade were also presented awards. He also distributed tricycles among persons with disabilities and sewing machines among needy beneficiaries. Several personalities who had rendered exemplary services in different fields were also honoured for their outstanding contributions. He extended warm greetings to the people on the 80th Independence Day and wished them a prosperous future, while expressing hope for continued progress and development of Punjab.

Prominent among those present on the occasion included District & Sessions Judge Rashmi Kapila, Senior Superintendent of Police Gaurav Toora, District Planning Board Chairman Sarabjit Singh Lubana, Aam Aadmi Party Halqa In-charge Advocate Karambir Singh Chandi, AAP leaders Narinder Singh Mansoo, Kanwar Iqbal Singh, Dr. Samuel Masih, Inderjit Singh Jugnu, Additional Deputy Commissioner (Rural Development) Varinderpal Singh Bajwa, besides other senior officers.