Kamalanagar, August 15, 2023: The 77th Independence Day of India was celebrated with great fervor and patriotism at Kamalanagar today. Dg. Rasik Mohan Chakma, the Hon’ble Chief Executive Member of the Chakma Autonomous District Council, graced the ceremonial event held at the Kamalanagar playground as the Chief Guest and did the honour of unfurling the national flag to the chorus of the national anthem sung by students of the Duloram Public Higher Secondary School, Kamalanagar. The celebration which drew a massive crowd of spectators was attended by Pu Lalneihthanga Colney, Sub-Divisional Officer (Civil), Members of District Councils, officials from both State and CADC government bodies, heads of institutions in Kamalanagar, and a host of other dignitaries.
This year’s celebration showcased the participation of 10 parade contingents in a spirited march past. The Chief Guest, Dg. Rasik Mohan Chakma conducted the ceremonial inspection of the parade contingents. Baptist Boarding School has been adjudged the best performing contingent. The P.C. Higher Secondary School, Chawngte-P, secured the second position, while the girls’ unit NCC cadets from Government Kamalanagar College secured the third place. The event was further enriched by captivating performances, including songs and cultural dances by the Chakma Mahila Samiti, Chawngte-P Branch YMA, Chawngte-L Branch YMA, and the Art and Culture Department of CADC. Final matches of the Independence Day Football tournament were played. In the women’s football match between Chawngte-P women’s football team and Govt. Kamalanagar College, the Chawngte P women team emerged victorious, while in the men’s football final match, Megchaga FC claimed victory over Bajeisora FC.
During his address, Chief Guest Dg. Rasik Mohan Chakma underscored the works and achievements of various departments of CADC during 2022-2023, including key initiatives that are set to transform the region’s infrastructure and quality of life of the people.
Highlighting the ongoing efforts in education, he shared that the construction of 10 school buildings across different locations in the CADC with funding support from the North Eastern Council (NEC), have reached 79.74% completion. He expressed hope that the completion of these school buildings will uplift the educational landscape of the region.
On the pressing issue of water supply, the Hon’ble Chief Executive Member noted significant developments in this domain stating that Chawngte Rural Water Supply Scheme under NABARD RIDFT and Jal Jeevan Mission are making substantial progress and are expected to be operational by December 2023. Once completed, these projects will ensure regular water supply, replacing the current irregular intervals of 2-3 months.
A significant announcement was made during his speech – plans to establish a Chakma students’ hostel in Kolkata. Dg. Rasik Mohan Chakma highlighted the groundwork that has already been laid out during his recent visit to Kolkata and construction will be started on a 10 katha (about 2675 sq. metre) of land as soon as paper works and documentation is finalized. He expressed the hope that this initiative would provide a much-needed solution for students and patients traveling to the city for education and medical treatment. The Hon’ble CEM also the honoured the winners of the various categories of the Independence Day tournament organized by the Chawngte Badminton Club by distributing prizes.
Amidst the patriotic fervor of the Independence Day, the Chief Executive Member, accompanied by his colleagues and the SDO (Civil), Chawngte, Pu Lalneihthanga Colney, undertook a meaningful visit to the Community Health Centre, Chawngte, where he provided financial assistance of Rs.1000 each to every patient undergoing treatment at the CHC.
Earlier in the day, Dg. Kala Soga Chakma, Executive Member of the Chakma Autonomous District Council, hoisted the national flag in the premises of the CADC Secretariat. Amongst a gathering of District Council Members, both past and present, CADC officials, and dignitaries, he reflected on the significance of India’s Independence Day and the sacrifices made by leaders such as Mahatma Gandhi, Subhash Chandra Bose, and Rani Laxmi Bhai in securing freedom from British rule. He called upon all individuals to strive for progress and development that aligns with advanced communities.
