13/08/2026
Full Dress Rehearsal for 80th Independence Day Celebrations Held at Sports Stadium Doda
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DODA, AUGUST 13: A full dress rehearsal for the celebration of the 80th Independence Day was held today at Sports Stadium, Doda, as part of the preparations for the Independence Day 2026 celebrations.
The rehearsal was conducted with patriotic fervour and enthusiasm, with active participation of students, security personnel, officers, officials and the general public.
The programme commenced with the hoisting of the National Flag, followed by the National Anthem. The National Song “Vande Mataram” was also presented on the occasion as part of the commemoration of its 150 glorious years.
Additional Deputy Commissioner Doda, Sh. Anil Kumar Thakur, who was the Chief Guest, inspected the parade and took the salute of the marching contingents.
The impressive march-past featured contingents of the CRPF, SSB, Jammu and Kashmir Armed Police, Jammu and Kashmir Police, Police Protection Force (PPF), NCC cadets and students from various Government and private educational institutions. The disciplined formations, synchronized marching and coordinated performances were appreciated by the gathering.
Performances by the J&K Police Band and school bands added to the patriotic atmosphere and remained among the major attractions of the rehearsal. The ADC appreciated all participants for their discipline, dedication and coordination and directed the concerned officers and departments to ensure meticulous arrangements for the smooth and dignified conduct of the Independence Day celebrations.
Addressing the gathering, ADC Anil Kumar Thakur extended greetings to the people of Doda on the eve of Independence Day and paid rich tributes to the freedom fighters and martyrs who made supreme sacrifices for the country’s independence.
He highlighted the significance of Independence Day in reaffirming the values of freedom, unity, sovereignty and national integrity. He also highlighted the developmental progress achieved in Doda district in key sectors including healthcare, education, road connectivity, tourism and digital infrastructure, besides various initiatives being undertaken by the District Administration to improve public services.
The ADC emphasized the need to promote the constructive use of smart and digital technologies in the education sector and encouraged youth to utilize technology for education, innovation and nation-building. He also underlined the importance of the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan and appreciated the organization of sporting and international-level tournaments in the district as an effective means of engaging youth positively and creating awareness against drug abuse.
The rehearsal concluded with colourful cultural performances by students from various Government and private schools. The performances included patriotic songs, dances and presentations showcasing India’s rich cultural heritage, unity in diversity and national spirit.
The vibrant performances reflected the talent and enthusiasm of the young generation and added further charm to the event.
The full dress rehearsal was attended by a large gathering of dignitaries, officers, officials, students, teachers, security personnel and members of the public.
