WAJAHAT SHABIR
SRINAGAR: Jammu and Kashmir is set to celebrate its first Republic Day under a fully functional government since the abrogation of Article 370 in August 2019, making this year’s event on January 26, 2025, especially significant.
The Lieutenant Governor will preside over the main ceremony at M.A. Stadium in Jammu, where he will hoist the national flag and take the ceremonial salute.
Last year, the Republic Day celebrations in Jammu and Kashmir were led by the Hon’ble Lieutenant Governor, who hoisted the national flag and took the ceremonial salute at the M.A. Stadium in Jammu. In Kashmir, the celebrations were presided over by the Divisional Commissioner, who hoisted the tricolor in Srinagar and oversaw the event.
As the Union Territory was under the direct administration of the Lieutenant Governor, these ceremonies were symbolic of the ongoing administrative transition in Jammu and Kashmir. This year, however, marks a significant shift with the presence of a fully functional government and the Chief Minister as the Chief Guest, reflecting the return of democratic governance in the region.
The Chief Minister, attending as the Chief Guest, will use the occasion to underline the government’s focus on peace, development, and progress in the region.
At the district level, key ministers will lead the events, ensuring that the celebrations resonate across Jammu and Kashmir. In Srinagar, Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary will oversee the Republic Day function. Sakeena Masood (Itoo), the Minister for Health, Education, and Social Welfare, will lead the event in Anantnag, while Udhampur’s celebrations will be presided over by Javed Ahmed Rana, Minister for Jal Shakti and Environment.
Baramulla will host Agriculture Minister Javid Ahmad Dar, who will take the salute at the district’s event. Kathua, on the other hand, will see Satish Sharma, Minister for Transport, Technology, and Youth Services, at the helm of its celebrations.
In addition to these senior leaders, local administrative officers will play key roles in ensuring Republic Day is celebrated widely. District Development Council (DDC) Chairpersons, Sub-Divisional Magistrates, and Tehsildars will preside over ceremonies in their respective jurisdictions, bringing the celebrations to the grassroots level.
