“Our Tricolour is the living symbol of the years of struggles and sacrifices of our forefathers. We will always uphold its honour, never forget our immortal martyrs, and together build a developed, prosperous, and strong Chhattisgarh,” said CM Vishnu Deo Sai while addressing a gathering at the Independence Run organised at Marine Drive in the state capital on Thursday. The CM ran alongside thousands of youth and paid floral tributes to the statues of Bharat Mata and Amar Balidani Rani Durgavati.
CM Vishnu Deo Sai said the Tricolour embodies the aspirations of crores of Indians and carries the indelible spirit of our valour, peace, and prosperity. Bowing to the sacred flag, he recalled that under the call of Prime Minister Narendra Modi in recent years, the entire country has turned into a sea of Tricolours during Independence Day celebrations. “Over the past few days, we have been marking this auspicious occasion with great enthusiasm in various ways. The Tiranga Yatras and the resolve to hoist the national flag in every household have connected this day to each and every citizen,” he said, adding that this Tiranga Yatra is not just an event, but a living symbol of our unity, integrity, and national pride.
Independence Day, he said, is a reminder that freedom is a priceless gift earned through countless sacrifices. “Lakhs and crores of patriots laid down their lives to secure this liberty for us,” he added. The CM grew nostalgic as he recalled his school days when “Prabhat Pheris” (morning processions) would be held on Independence Day, with patriotic songs echoing through every village. “The pride I felt back then is the same pride I carry in my heart today,” he said.
CM Vishnu Deo Sai stressed that it is now everyone’s responsibility to take the state and country to new heights of development. “We have prepared the Vision Document for a developed Chhattisgarh by 2047, and our government is working in alignment with it. This is our collective resolve,” he said, extending advance greetings to everyone present for Independence Run.
Speaking on the occasion, Sports and Youth Welfare Minister Tankram Verma said the Independence Run is more than just a race—it is a response to the sacrifices made for the nation’s freedom. “Our country attained independence through the supreme sacrifices of brave sons. Walking alongside PM Narendra Modi’s vision of a developed, clean, healthy, and best India, our CM has envisioned a prosperous and developed Chhattisgarh. Let us pledge to contribute our invaluable part in making this dream a reality,” he said.
The event was attended by MLAs Purandar Mishra, Motilal Sahu, Guru Khushwant Saheb, and Anuj Sharma; Zila Panchayat President Naveen Agrawal; and Sports and Youth Welfare Department Secretary Yashwant Kumar.