Lieutenant Governor(LG)V K Saxena on Thursday here hoisted the National Flag at Raj Niwas on the occasion of  78thIndependence Day. A ceremonial police contingent presented the National Salute. Paying homage to the countless freedom fighters who sacrificed their lives for the country, Saxena emphasized upon the arduous journey towards independence. While acknowledging the challenges that are ahead, the LG expressed confidence in Indias potential to become a global leader. We have paid a heavy price for our freedom. Millions of patriots have written the story of independent India with their blood. While some of their names are well-known to us, there are millions more whose names we have never heard.  Today is the day to pay our respects to these unsung heroes of freedom movement, Saxena said. The LG highlighted Indias rapid strides in various sectors, including defence, space, pharma and healthcare during the recent years. He recounted that the successful hosting of the G-20 Summit and the World Heritage Conference recently, underscored the countrys growing stature on the global stage. Saxena also emphasized upon focussing on youth empowerment, job creation, and environmental sustainability. The on-going efforts to revitalize Delhis heritage sites, restore and rejuvenatethe Yamuna floodplains and massive afforestation / reforestation drives were underlined by the LG as examples of his commitment to sustainable development. He pointed out that the Ghats of Yamuna and its floodplains in Delhi had developed as eco-friendly public green spaces in the shape of Asita, Bansera, and Vasudev Ghat. This, Saxena said, had brought the people of the city closer to the river, in the process making them stakeholders in its rejuvenation. In addition to this, several historical sites like Mehrauli Archaeological Park, St. James Church, Sanjay Van, Shalimar Bagh, RajaonkiBaoli, and Anang Tal Baoli had or were in the process of undergoing conservation, preservation, and restoration. Saxena said the Yamuna River, flowing alongside Delhi, belongs to us all. The air we breathe here affects us equally. While the government primarily bears the responsibility of keeping it clean, it is also our duty to support the government in this endeavour. The LG also underlined the importance of meaningful contribution by every citizen of the country in achieving the dream of a Viksit Bharat by 2047, as envisioned by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.  Calling upon citizens to actively participate in Nation-building, Saxena stressed the importance of accountability and transparency in governance. The Lt. Governor also extended his congratulation to all the medallists at the Paris Olympics as also Vinesh Phogat and commended every participant for their exceptional performance and contribution to Indias pride. He exhorted all to renew their commitment to serving the nation with greater vigour, sincerity and dedication.

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