Bhubaneswar, December 18, 2024 (TBB Bureau): In a resounding display of patriotism and unity, a monumental 108-ft national flag was unveiled at Rama Devi Women’s University, Bhubaneswar, on Wednesday. Installed by the Flag Foundation of India, the towering tricolor is a symbol of national pride and an enduring testament to the spirit of India.
The grand ceremony witnessed the participation of prominent dignitaries, including Odisha’s Deputy Chief Minister KV Singh Deo and Odisha Legislative Assembly Speaker Surama Padhy. Joining virtually was Naveen Jindal, three-term Member of Parliament, Chairman of Jindal Steel and Power (JSP), and President of the Flag Foundation of India. Major General Ashim Kohli (Retd.), CEO of the Flag Foundation of India, and Professor Aprajita Chowdhury, Vice Chancellor of Rama Devi Women’s University, also graced the occasion.
Strategically situated within the university campus, the monumental flag is poised to become a cherished landmark, fostering inspiration among students, faculty, and the broader Bhubaneswar community.
In his address, Deputy Chief Minister Singh Deo commended the Flag Foundation of India for its relentless efforts in installing monumental flags across the country. He praised Naveen Jindal’s legal battle that culminated in securing citizens’ rights to hoist the national flag year-round with dignity. “This flag represents our collective identity and serves as a powerful reminder of the values that bind us together as a nation,” Singh Deo said.
Naveen Jindal, addressing the gathering virtually, underscored the symbolic power of the tricolor in uniting citizens and inspiring national pride. “The National Flag is not just a piece of cloth; it embodies our shared dreams and aspirations. The sight of the tricolor soaring high will instill a sense of responsibility and dedication among generations of students,” he emphasized.
Odisha Legislative Assembly Speaker Surama Padhy, in her remarks as Guest of Honour, applauded the efforts of the Flag Foundation and JSP in promoting patriotism and fostering national unity. She highlighted the role of such initiatives in inspiring the youth and contributing to nation-building.
Prashant Hota, President and Head of Group CSR at JSP, highlighted the milestone achieved by the Foundation. “This is the 158th monumental flag installed by the Flag Foundation of India and the eighth in Odisha. Under the leadership of Shri Naveen Jindal, this initiative continues to inspire a sense of national pride,” he said.
The event drew enthusiastic participation from university students, faculty, and dignitaries, who celebrated the moment with pride and reverence. The flag, soaring against Bhubaneswar’s skyline, serves as a powerful reminder of India’s unity, diversity, and shared aspirations.
The initiative marks yet another significant step by the Flag Foundation of India in creating iconic landmarks that symbolize the values of the nation. As the monumental tricolor waves high, it inspires every Indian to uphold the ideals represented by the flag – unity, integrity, and dedication to the nation.