Vice President C. P. Radhakrishnan today hoisted the National Flag at the Flag Point in Sri Vijaya Puram, the capital of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, as part of the ‘Har Ghar Tiranga Campaign’. On the occasion, he paid tribute to the brave freedom fighters. The Vice President also attended the state function, ‘Tiranga Concert on Vande Mataram’, held at the auditorium of Dr B. R. Ambedkar Institute of Technology.

 

In his address, the Vice President recalled the glorious history of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands associated with India’s freedom struggle. He said this is the very land where freedom fighters endured severe torture and unimaginable hardships for the country’s independence. Referring to the historical significance of the Cellular Jail, Mr Radhakrishnan paid homage to the sacrifices and contributions of the freedom fighters. He also recalled the historic day of 30th December 1943, when Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose hoisted the Tricolour in Port Blair.

 

The Vice President said that whenever the Andaman and Nicobar Islands are mentioned, one not only thinks of their natural beauty and lush greenery but also remembers the spirit of patriotism associated with Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose hoisting the Tricolour here for the first time. Referring to the significance of ‘Vande Mataram’, the Vice President said that the song played an important role in strengthening the spirit of nationalism and unity among the people during the freedom movement.

 

He described the Andaman and Nicobar Islands as a symbol of India’s diversity and unity. He also emphasised the need to maintain a balance between the country’s development and environmental protection. Mr Radhakrishnan is on a two-day visit to the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. Yesterday, he visited the National Memorial Cellular Jail and paid tribute to the brave freedom fighters. He also visited Veer Savarkar’s cell and witnessed the light and sound show organised at the Cellular Jail.