SENAPATI: The District Administration, Senapati celebrated the 80th Independence Day at the Senapati Local Ground on Saturday, with Deputy Commissioner Dharun Kumar S, IAS hoisting the national tricolour and taking the salute.
Addressing the gathering, Dharun Kumar said the five major tribes of Senapati — Maram, Poumai, Mao, Thangal and Zeme — represent distinct traditions and histories but share a common land and future.
“Five tribes, one Senapati. Many traditions, one shared future. Many voices, one national song. And above all, one India,” the DC said, calling unity in diversity the strength of the district and the country.
On development, Dharun Kumar stressed that freedom must translate into opportunities for ordinary citizens, particularly children in remote villages. He highlighted the operationalisation of Eklavya Model Residential Schools at Oinam, Liyai and Makhan, with proposed schools at Song Song, Willong and Chillivai-Phaibung.
He also highlighted ongoing and proposed healthcare infrastructure, including the Senapati Super Speciality Hospital, proposed Senapati Medical College and Model Rural Health Research Unit, along with the approved District Hospital Blood Bank and institutional buildings at CHC Maram and CHC Tadubi.
The DC said development must reach the last village and household, while urging young people to focus on education, skills, employment, sports and entrepreneurship amid continued action against narcotics and illegal poppy cultivation.
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“The strongest answer to despair is opportunity, and the best defence against drugs is a future worth looking forward to,” he said.
Calling for responsible citizenship, Dharun Kumar said patriotism should extend beyond the Independence Day ceremony through respect for the law, public property, the environment and fellow citizens.
“True patriotism is the quiet decision to do one’s duty honestly when nobody is watching,” he said.
The DC also called for a peaceful, inclusive and prosperous Senapati that protects its forests, preserves its heritage and gives every community confidence in the future.
The parade was led by D. Theirngam Thangal, MPS, with six contingents, including the 16 Assam Rifles band party, taking part in the march past.
A total of 114 commendation certificates were distributed to government officials for their valuable services. Potovei Chapao, who represented India at the World Youth Cup 2026 and scored seven goals, was also awarded a commendation certificate. Government schools that performed well in the HSLC Examination 2026 were also recognised during the programme.
