NIT Rourkela community today celebrated the 77th Independence Day. Prof. K. Umamaheshwar Rao (Director, NIT Rourkela) hoisted the National Flag at the NCC Ground NIT-R, followed by National Anthem.

Delivering the Independence Day address, Prof. Rao said, “The theme for Independence Day 2023 is “Nation First, Always First.” We, the people of India, should promise to put India first in everything we do. Together, we all have come so far and have seen the overall growth of the country. Today, we live in times that are more comfortable than ever. Power and responsibility are two things that come with freedom. This year, it was not just global warming, we witnessed a global boiling. I urge you all to take responsibility to act towards Sustainable Development Goals. Let’s embrace a future full of hope. It’s a proud day for every Indian as we commemorate the 77th anniversary of our country’s independence. Jai Hind!”

Prof. Rao then administered the ‘National Integration Pledge’ to all the attendees of the event. Showcasing a grand display of patriotic fervour the program included a parade by students of NIT Rourkela who are enrolled in the National Cadet Corps (NCC)-Army, Navy and Air Force wings respectively. Security Guards of NIT Rourkela, REC school children also participated in the parade. Prof. Manish Okade was the host of the event. The event concluded with prize distribution to all the different troops who participated in the Independence Day parade.

The faculty and staff also celebrated Independence Day at their respective clubs. Prof. Rohan Dhiman (Registrar, NITR) hoisted the National Flag at Staff Club and felicitated the retired employees. Prof. Mukesh Gupta (Dean, Sponsored Research, NITR) hoisted the National Flag at Technology Club (faculty and officers club). As a part of “Meri Maati Mera Desh” (a nationwide campaign as the finale of the Azaadi ka Amrit Mahotsav program), students and faculties also participated in a plantation drive near the Naga pond at the campus.