Kargil, Oct 31: “India’s true strength lies in its unity amid diversity,” remarked Chairman and Chief Executive Councillor, LAHDC Kargil, Dr. Mohd Jaffer Akhoon, as Kargil celebrated Rashtriya Ekta Diwas with patriotic enthusiasm at the District Police Lines on Thursday. The event, held to mark the 150th birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, echoed with the spirit of national integration and collective resolve toward building a united and self-reliant India.
The celebrations began with a ceremonial parade by Paramilitary Forces, Ladakh Police, NCC cadets, and students of Mutahhary Public School. The tricolour fluttered proudly as the district came together to honour the Iron Man of India—whose vision and determination shaped the nation’s unity.
Addressing a large gathering of officers, students, and citizens, Dr. Akhoon paid glowing tribute to Sardar Patel’s unparalleled role in unifying the country. He emphasized that the occasion serves as a reminder of the values of integrity, patriotism, and solidarity that every citizen must uphold.
Highlighting India’s cultural, linguistic, and spiritual richness, Dr. Akhoon said that diversity remains the country’s greatest strength. He reaffirmed LAHDC Kargil’s commitment to protecting local traditions, languages, and crafts, encouraging citizens to embrace indigenous products and handicrafts under the “Vocal for Local” campaign to boost regional enterprise and self-reliance.
The CEC lauded the people-friendly initiatives of the Ladakh Police under Senior Superintendent of Police Kargil, Shri Ram R., acknowledging their consistent efforts in maintaining public order and combating the drug menace. He also praised religious and social organizations for their role in fostering moral awareness and communal harmony across the district.
Calling upon the youth to draw inspiration from Sardar Patel’s life, Dr. Akhoon urged them to contribute to the vision of “Viksit Bharat” through innovation, discipline, and unity under the “Make in India” mission.
The event witnessed spirited participation from students, government officials, and members of civil society, reflecting the collective pride and harmony that define the spirit of Kargil.
Among the dignitaries present were Additional Deputy Commissioner Kargil, Imteeaz Kacho; SSP Kargil, Ram R.; Director Horticulture, Tsewang Punchok; Brigadier 121, Ashish A. Joshi; Adhoc Commandant CRPF, Sanjay Kumar Yadav; Commanding Officer, Kumaon Regiment, Amar Sali; Superintendent Engineer R&B, Dr. Tsewang Thinglas; Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Liaqat Ali; Tehsildar Kargil, Ayaz Ahmad; Assistant Director Tourism, Mohammad Ali Tak; and Chief Education Officer, Sonam Wangchuk. The celebration concluded with a collective pledge to uphold the values of unity, peace, and progress—resonating with Sardar Patel’s enduring message of a strong and united India.
