I-Day celebrations held in Kollam

Unprecedented resistance and sacrifice led the nation to its independence, Minister for Forest, Wildlife, and Skill Development Shibu Baby John has said here on Saturday. He was speaking after hoisting the national flag and taking the salute at the 80th Independence Day celebrations held at Asramam ground. ”Freedom was achieved through the life-long dedication and immense sacrifices of countless individuals. Like a grand, sheltering tree, democracy and secularism continue to flourish across the country,” he said. Against the backdrop of recurring natural disasters, the Minister pointed out that the State is actively taking precautions and continuing the efforts to protect people from wildlife incursions. He also placed great hope in the fishing community, who voluntarily step forward to lead relief and rescue efforts during crises.

The official ceremony commenced at 9 a.m., where District Collector Anie Jula Thomas received the Minister upon his arrival at the grounds. District Police Chief (Kollam City) M. Hemalatha and District Police Chief (Kollam Rural) Shaji Sugunan also received the salute. A total of 23 platoons—including Police, Excise, Forest, Student Police Cadet (SPC), NCC, Scouts and Guides, and Junior Red Cross—participated in the parade. Band platoons from GHS Pooyappally, Christ Raj HSS, SPC Kollam, and Infant Jesus Anglo-Indian HSS added colour and rhythm to the parade performance.

The parade was commanded by K. Mahesh, Reserve Inspector at the District Police Headquarters, with V. Dinesan, Sub-Inspector at the DHQ Camp, serving as the Second-in-Command. The Minister presented mementos to the participating platoons. The event concluded with the rendition of the National Anthem by a team from the Government TTI. The ceremony was attended by Mayor A.K. Hafeez, District Panchayat president R. Lathadevi, Sub-collector Akhil V. Menon, Deputy Mayor Dr. Karumalil Udaya Sukumaran, ADM S. Sajeed and Kollam tehsildar A.S. Ajilal.