Students, teachers and staff participate in flag hoisting, cultural programmes and plantation drive at Jagadhri and Bilaspur campuses

YAMUNANAGAR / PEN OF DEMOCRACY NEWS DESK

St Lawrence International School, located on Pabni Road, Jagadhri, and Shahpur Road, Bilaspur, celebrated Independence Day with patriotic fervour and enthusiasm, bringing together students, teachers and staff members for a special programme dedicated to the spirit of freedom, national pride and responsible citizenship.

The celebrations featured a series of patriotic and cultural activities, along with a plantation drive aimed at promoting environmental awareness among students. The programme also provided an opportunity for the school community to remember the sacrifices of India’s freedom fighters and reinforce the values of discipline, honesty, hard work and patriotism among the younger generation.

The school campus witnessed a warm welcome for Chairperson Dr Rajni Sehgal, Managing Director and renowned educationist Dr M.K. Sehgal, Ram Chandana, Sadhana Chandana, Swaranjali, Naman Sehgal and Harshita Sehgal. School office-bearers and teachers welcomed the dignitaries with enthusiasm.

The national flag was jointly hoisted by the dignitaries, following which the national anthem was played. The entire campus resonated with patriotic sentiment as students, teachers and staff stood together to pay respect to the Tricolour and the nation.

Ceremony begins with Saraswati and Ganesha prayers

The programme formally commenced with prayers dedicated to Goddess Saraswati and Lord Ganesha, followed by the ceremonial lighting of the lamp by the distinguished guests and school authorities.

The traditional opening was followed by a plantation drive in which the guests and school officials planted saplings on the campus. The initiative conveyed a message of environmental responsibility and the need to build a greener and healthier future.

School authorities said that the plantation activity was deliberately linked with the Independence Day celebrations to remind students that patriotism extends beyond national symbols and celebrations. Protecting the environment, conserving natural resources and contributing to a sustainable future are equally important responsibilities of citizens.

The gathering also paid tribute to the brave soldiers and martyrs who made the ultimate sacrifice for the country’s freedom and security. The school community remembered their courage and dedication and acknowledged the responsibility of the present generation to uphold the values for which they fought.

Students present patriotic cultural programmes

The cultural segment of the celebration became one of the major highlights of the programme. Students presented a range of patriotic performances that reflected their love and respect for the country.

Through songs, music, dance and dramatic presentations, the students conveyed messages of patriotism, national unity and dedication to the nation. Their performances highlighted the sacrifices of freedom fighters while also presenting the aspirations of young Indians for a progressive and prosperous country.

The confidence and enthusiasm displayed by the students drew enthusiastic applause from the audience. The campus remained filled with patriotic energy as the young performers presented their programmes.

Teachers also participated actively in the celebrations and presented special performances based on patriotism and national pride. Their presentations added a different dimension to the programme and were appreciated by students, guests and fellow staff members.

The participation of teachers demonstrated that Independence Day was being celebrated not merely as a school event for students but as a collective occasion involving the entire educational community.

Dr M.K. Sehgal stresses values of discipline and responsibility

Addressing the gathering, renowned educationist and Managing Director Dr M.K. Sehgal said Independence Day was a festival of pride, honour and gratitude for every Indian.

He said the freedom enjoyed by the country today had been achieved after immense sacrifice by countless freedom fighters and national heroes. Remembering their contribution should not be limited to ceremonial occasions, he said, but should inspire citizens to live responsibly and contribute positively to society.

Dr Sehgal urged students to respect the country’s freedom by making discipline, honesty, hard work and responsibility an integral part of their lives.

He emphasised that the future of the country depended largely on its young generation. Students, he said, must understand that education was not only about academic achievement but also about developing character, social responsibility and respect for the nation.

He encouraged students to work hard, remain disciplined and use their education for constructive purposes. According to him, responsible young citizens would play a crucial role in strengthening India’s social and economic progress.

Dr Rajni Sehgal highlights role of education in nation-building

Chairperson Dr Rajni Sehgal said students were the future custodians of the country and that educational institutions had a responsibility that went beyond classroom teaching.

She said providing quality education was important, but schools must simultaneously help students develop honesty, discipline, good values, cultural awareness and a deep sense of patriotism.

Dr Sehgal stressed that the foundation of a strong nation was laid during childhood. A country whose children are educated, well-mannered, responsible and happy is more likely to achieve sustainable progress, she said.

She encouraged teachers and parents to work together in developing responsible citizens who could contribute meaningfully to society. She also appreciated the students and teachers for their enthusiastic participation in the Independence Day celebrations.

Patriotism and environmental responsibility brought together

The combination of cultural performances, tribute to martyrs and plantation activities gave the programme a broader message. While the cultural performances celebrated India’s freedom and national identity, the plantation drive focused on the responsibility of the present generation towards the environment.

School authorities said that young people must understand that nation-building involves several dimensions, including education, environmental protection, social responsibility, discipline and respect for constitutional and democratic values.

The celebrations therefore sought to connect the emotional spirit of Independence Day with practical responsibilities that students can adopt in their daily lives.

The programme concluded with the distribution of sweets among students and staff members. The participants shared Independence Day greetings and celebrated the occasion in an atmosphere marked by patriotism, enthusiasm and togetherness.

Dr M.K. Sehgal, Dr Rajni Sehgal, Ram Chandana, Sadhana Chandana, Swaranjali, Naman Sehgal, Harshita Sehgal, Swapransh, Pooja Batra, Meena Rohilla, Dr G.B. Gupta, Gagan Bajaj, Vikrant Gulati and other staff members were present during the celebrations.

The Independence Day programme at St Lawrence International School thus combined patriotic expression, cultural creativity, environmental awareness and educational values. The participation of both students and teachers made the celebration a collective reflection on India’s freedom and the responsibilities of the generation entrusted with carrying the nation forward.

POD/DESK