Preserve democracy and secularism, says Minister Roji M. John in his Independence Day message

Minister for Higher Education Roji M. John urged the preservation of democracy and secularism during his Independence Day message. Speaking at the Ernakulam Collectorate Parade Ground, he emphasized the need to ensure social and economic freedom for every citizen alongside political liberty. Mr. John lamented that India yearns for a nation devoid of divisions based on religion, caste, race, and language.

Realizing the importance of nationalism, he advocated for a unity that includes everyone. The minister hoisted the national flag and saluted the parading platoons. District collector G. Priyanka, District Police Chiefs, MLA Uma Thomas, and Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Southern Naval Command Vice-Admiral Sameer Saxena were among the other dignitaries present.

Saxena paid tribute to the bravehearts who sacrificed their lives by laying a wreath at the SNC War Memorial. He showcased the Indian Navy's progression from a modest coastal force to a highly capable, blue-water force, capable of addressing regional maritime interests. The Indian Navy is now a trusted security partner and the first responder in the region.

Naval ships displayed the national flag during the Har Ghar Tiranga campaign. Similarly, Kochi Metro Rail Limited's managing director, Loknath Behera, hoisted the flag at the Operation Control Centre of Kochi Metro and the water metro jetty at Fort Kochi. Behera praised the progress of Kochi Metro, acknowledging India's advancement towards becoming an advanced nation by 2047.

Aboon Mor Baselios Joseph, head of the Jacobite Syrian Orthodox Church, echoed Mr. John's sentiments, stressing that every citizen must uphold the country's unity and Constitutional values.