Ferozepur (Gurpreet Singh): Punjab’s Independence Day celebrations this year carried a strong historical and emotional resonance, with Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann using the occasion to recall the sacrifices made by Punjabis during India’s freedom struggle and the immense human cost of the 1947 Partition.
Mann hoisted the national flag at the Cantonment Board Stadium in Ferozepur on Friday. Before the ceremony, he and his wife, Dr Gurpreet Kaur, visited the Martyrs’ Memorial at Hussainiwala and paid their respects to those who sacrificed their lives for the country.
Addressing the gathering, the Chief Minister said Punjab’s contribution to India’s freedom movement was unparalleled, while the state also suffered enormously during Partition.
‘Punjab paid a very heavy price for Partition’
Mann said the division of India in 1947 resulted in the loss of around one million lives and left an enduring scar on Punjab.
He said Partition did not merely divide geographical boundaries but also separated families, communities and places that were deeply connected to people’s lives.
The Chief Minister noted that the emotional bond with historic gurdwaras and other important sites that remained across the border continues to be felt by Punjabis.
He also said the courage to stand against injustice and oppression has been deeply rooted in Punjab’s history and traditions.
Ferozepur’s legacy of sacrifice recalled
The Chief Minister highlighted Ferozepur’s place in the country’s history, describing the region as a land associated with several prominent freedom fighters and martyrs.
He paid homage to the 21 Sikh soldiers who were killed in the Battle of Saragarhi, whose sacrifice is commemorated at Gurudwara Saragarhi in the district.
Mann also saluted the people living in Punjab’s border belt, acknowledging their resilience and contribution to the country’s security.
Rs 25 crore memorial project at Hussainiwala
The state government’s efforts to preserve the legacy of martyrs were also highlighted during the programme.
Mann said a ₹25-crore martyrdom complex is being developed at Hussainiwala. The project is intended to commemorate the sacrifices associated with the historic site and help future generations learn about the region’s role in India’s freedom movement.
25 police personnel to receive honours
The Independence Day programme will also see 25 police officers and personnel recognised for bravery and meritorious service.
The honours acknowledge their contribution to maintaining public safety and their performance in challenging circumstances.
‘Vande Mataram’ features in Punjab government ceremony
This year’s state government function also featured the singing of ‘Vande Mataram’, marking the first time the patriotic song was included in an Independence Day government programme in Punjab.
The inclusion added another element to the celebrations, which were centred on national pride and remembrance.
Ministers lead celebrations in other cities
Independence Day functions were held across Punjab, with senior leaders and ministers unfurling the Tricolour at various locations.
Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema led the celebrations in Ludhiana, while Food and Civil Supplies Minister Lal Chand Kataruchak hoisted the national flag in Pathankot. Minister Mohinder Bhagat presided over the function in Jalandhar.
In Chandigarh, Punjab Governor and UT Administrator Gulab Chand Kataria led the Independence Day ceremony.
PM Modi invokes Ludhiana from Red Fort
Punjab also found a mention in Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Independence Day speech from the Red Fort.
While discussing India’s manufacturing ambitions and the opportunities available to small businesses through expanding global market access, PM Modi specifically referred to Ludhiana and urged MSMEs to focus on producing goods for international markets.
The reference comes as the Centre continues to push manufacturing, exports and self-reliance as major components of its long-term development agenda.
For Punjab, the Independence Day observance ultimately combined the present with the past—celebrating India’s freedom while remembering a history marked by sacrifice, Partition and the contribution of the state’s soldiers, freedom fighters and ordinary citizens.
