Fulfilling One’s Responsibilities is the True Contribution to the Nation: Prof. LohaniThree-day ‘Pragati Utsav’ of Uttarakhand Open University Concludes with Flag Hoisting and Cultural Programs,

Haldwani, The three-day Pragati Utsav at Uttarakhand Open University concluded today on the occasion of the 69th Independence Day, with flag hoisting, patriotic songs, poetry recitations, yoga demonstrations, and cultural performances.

Following the flag hoisting, University Vice-Chancellor Prof. Naveen Chandra Lohani addressed the gathering and said:
“When we live on foreign lands, we feel the true value of independence more deeply. To safeguard this freedom, it is essential that we perform our duties with honesty and integrity. Patriotism is not limited to guarding the nation at the borders; discharging one’s responsibilities in their respective roles is also a genuine contribution to the country.”

Prof. Lohani further emphasized that India holds a strong position on the world map today, and the global community values India’s freedom. “We must emerge as role models for the world,” he added.

Educational and Cultural Enrichment

The event also highlighted the State Government’s initiative to establish Model Education Centres in every district, with their coordination entrusted to Uttarakhand Open University. The university community expressed great satisfaction at this decision.

Hayat Singh Rawat, editor of Pahru Patrika, welcomed the Vice-Chancellor on behalf of the Kumaoni community and expressed hope that the University would serve as a center for preserving regional linguistic identity. He also suggested that the university library should include literature in Kumaoni and Garhwali languages, which would aid in curriculum design for the future.

Cultural Highlights

The cultural segment began soon after the flag hoisting ceremony:

• Faculty members and the Department of Music presented melodious patriotic songs.
• Students from the Department of Yoga performed a Yoga Dance in group and solo formats, captivating the audience.
• Various academic and non-academic departments presented songs, poems, and performances.

Distinguished Presence

The event was attended by University Registrar Dr. Khemraj Bhatt, Finance Controller Surya Pratap Singh, Prof. P.D. Pant, Prof. Girija Pandey, Prof. Manjari Agarwal, Prof. Rakesh Rayal, Prof. M.M. Joshi, poet Narendra Bangari, Janmajay Tiwari, research scholars, and the entire university community.

A two-day Exhibition on Freedom Fighters of India was also organized, which was visited and appreciated by all attendees.

The program was successfully conducted by Dr. Shashank Shukla and Dr. Rajendra Kaida.