Jammu, 30 March (H.S.): “Vande Mataram is our identity, strength, and vow. It is not just verses but a profound experience woven into our civilization’s fabric. Vande Mataram singing and related events revives memories of immortal martyrs, honors their sacrifices, and renews our commitment to India’s glory,” the Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha said this on Monday.

He called upon every section of society to share one dream: making India the world’s greatest nation.

“We must unite to realize it. When every citizen of J&K UT dedicates themselves to building a developed India, I believe that collective spirit will become an unstoppable force,” the Lieutenant Governor said.

The Lieutenant Governor was speaking at the closing ceremony of Special Phase marking the 150 years of Vande Mataram, at Abhinav Theatre, Jammu. The Special Phase organised from 23rd March to 30th March 2026 to commemorate Shaheedi Diwas and honor the great martyrs of the freedom struggle, whose immense sacrifices paved the way for India’s independence.

The Lieutenant Governor emphasised that the devotion and fervor in Jammu Kashmir towards Vande Matram, reflects how this Union Territory has shed painful chapters, embracing the ideals we have toiled for over the last five-six years.

“Under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi Ji, Jammu Kashmir has been integrated into the national mainstream, setting new benchmarks in development and showcasing profound patriotism through pivotal events like Vande Mataram and Har Ghar Tiranga,” the Lieutenant Governor said.

The nation witnessed Jammu Kashmir’s stellar contribution during the previous phases of Vande Mataram @150 years commemorative event. In the first phase (November 7-14, 2025), 9 of India’s top 10 performing districts were from UT, with Kishtwar at Number 1. In the second (January 19-26, 2026), 6 were from Jammu Kashmir, led by Poonch.

The Lieutenant Governor said the overwhelming participation of people of Jammu Kashmir in the previous two phases of Vande Mataram event and embrace of its values signal a transformative power for the future.

“I firmly believe a region’s greatest strength lies in its ability to envision its future. In Jammu Kashmir, I’m witnessing that potential flourish.

It’s vital to spread the message that true patriotism is the bedrock of peace and progress. It’s a sense of responsibility, a spirit of contribution, assuring us that we can better the world together,” the Lieutenant Governor said.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Krishan Kumar