As part of the nationwide commemoration of 150 years of the national song “Vande Mataram”, Union Minister Dr Jitendra Singh today led a foot march in the border village of Londi More near the Zero Line on the International Border in Hiranagar sector.
During the event, Dr Jitendra Singh announced several initiatives for residents of border areas. He said the Government of India has approved compensation for locals who had donated their land to the Border Security Force (BSF) for establishing pickets and other security infrastructure near the Indo-Pak border. The district administration, he added, will finalize the modalities for distributing the compensation.
Joined by BSF personnel, students, women, youth, and local officials, Dr Singh led the Vande Mataram Padyatra from Primary School Londi More to Border Out Post (BOP) Tapan amid patriotic chants and drumbeats.
Addressing a gathering at BOP Tapan, the Minister highlighted the historical and emotional significance of Vande Mataram, describing it as a symbol of India’s unity, strength, and devotion to the Motherland during the freedom struggle. He said the nationwide celebration of 150 years of the song, directed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, aims to reconnect citizens—especially the youth—with its true spirit.
Paying tribute to the BSF, Dr Singh lauded their unwavering commitment to national security, saying, “It is because of their vigilance that citizens of India sleep peacefully.” He said the padyatra was an expression of gratitude towards the soldiers’ dedication and sacrifice.
Dr Singh also announced that the government has decided to raise an all-woman battalion in the border areas, with recruitment to begin soon.
Earlier, speaking at the launch of the padyatra at Londi More, Dr Singh said starting the commemoration from the Zero Line carries deep symbolic meaning, as it reflects the courage and vigilance of India’s soldiers. He added that Vande Mataram represents not just the freedom movement but also the timeless values and civilisational ethos of the nation.
He further noted that since 2014, under Prime Minister Modi’s leadership, the government has consistently honoured India’s national icons, citing the celebrations of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel’s 150th and Dr Syama Prasad Mookerjee’s 100th anniversaries as examples of that commitment.(KINS)
