Jalandhar Institute celebrates 80th Independence Day with patriotic fervour and vision for Viksit Bharat@2047

With patriotic fervour and a renewed commitment to nation-building, Apeejay Institute of Management & Engineering Technical Campus (AIMETC), Jalandhar, celebrated India’s 80th Independence Day, with the NCC Department spearheading the celebrations. The occasion brought the institute community together to remember the sacrifices of the freedom movement and reflect on the responsibility of the younger generation in shaping India’s journey towards 2047.

The celebrations commenced with the hoisting of the National Flag by Dr Rajesh Bagga, Director, AIMETC, followed by the rendition of the National Anthem. The ceremony set a solemn yet inspiring tone for the celebrations, reminding students of the significance of freedom and the responsibilities that accompany it.

Addressing the gathering on the eve of Independence Day, Dr Bagga urged students to view freedom not merely as a legacy inherited from the past but as a responsibility towards the future. Reflecting on 80 years of Independence, he encouraged the young generation to look beyond celebrations and think deeply about the India they wish to build.

This year’s commemoration also holds special significance with 150 years of ‘Vande Mataram’. Dr Bagga highlighted the iconic song’s association with courage, sacrifice, patriotism and unwavering faith during India’s freedom struggle, connecting its historical significance with the aspirations of contemporary India.

Taking students on a journey through India’s ancient, medieval and modern history, Dr Bagga emphasised that the past should not be reduced to a collection of dates, dynasties and events meant only for examinations. Instead, he encouraged students to view history as a repository of ideas, innovations, knowledge systems, skills and entrepreneurial practices that can offer valuable lessons for the present.

He urged students to examine India’s traditional knowledge through a contemporary lens and explore how it can contribute to solving modern challenges. Referring to areas such as agriculture, he highlighted the potential of combining indigenous agricultural and water-conservation practices with modern technology, design and business models to develop sustainable agri-tech and climate solutions.

Linking these ideas with the vision of a developed India, Dr Bagga drew attention to the theme ‘Yuva Shakti for Viksit Bharat@2047’. He encouraged students to recognise that India’s centenary of Independence in 2047 would be shaped significantly by their ideas, choices and actions.

The programme provided students with a vibrant platform to express their patriotic spirit and perspectives on nation-building. Through inspiring speeches and poetic recitals, students reflected on freedom, unity, responsibility and the role of youth in creating a developed India. Their presentations demonstrated pride in the nation’s rich heritage while expressing confidence in its future.

The celebration concluded on a soulful and emotional note with the collective singing of ‘Vande Mataram’, commemorating 150 years of the iconic national song. The rendition filled the gathering with patriotic fervour and reaffirmed the collective resolve to contribute meaningfully towards the vision of Viksit Bharat@2047.