The Ministry of Tourism, Govt. of India (North), Institute of Hotel Management Srinagar and Himalayan Mountaineering Institute (HMI), Darjeeling in a joint effort displayed a 7500 Sq. Ft Indian Tricolour at the bank of Dal Lake, Srinagar. This was as part of celebrating 75 years of Independence and Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav.
Lt Governor of Jammu and Kashmir Shri Manoj Sinha was the Chief Guest and addressed on this historic event. In his speech Lt Governor extended warm greetings to the people of Jammu & Kashmir and talked about the developmental plan for next 25 years.
The Flag itself was weighing 80-85 kg with supporting elements. It is pertinent to mention that Team HMI had displayed the same Flag first time in Sikkim Himalayas in April 2021 and subsequently, at Victoria Memorial, Kolkata on 15th Aug 21 and at Statue of Unity, Gujarat on 31 Oct 2021.
Thereafter, the Flag was displayed at Antarctica, setting the World Record of Largest National Flag of any country displayed for the first time in Antarctica. Now, in line with Govt. of India’s Har Ghar Tiranga campaign and also Azadi Ka Amrit Mohotsav, the Flag is being displayed in Srinagar.
The Flag, before arrival in Srinagar, was displayed in Darjeeling on 08 Aug 2022 on the occasion of 80 Years of QUIT INDIA MOVEMENT. Since, the Flag is so huge in size, it was made in three panels. Special attention was given to its stability factor and safety anchors were appropriately fitted, so that the Flag can withstand the weather extremities from high velocity mountain winds to subzero temperature of Antarctica and also other extreme weather elements.
Shri Anil Oraw, Regional Director (North) traditionally welcome the Lt Governor and spoke about the importance of displaying the flag in Dal Lake Srinagar. Dr. Arun Kumar Mehta IAS, Chief Secretary, J & K, Shri Sarmad Hafeez, IAS Principal Secretary and other senior Govt Officials, travel trade stakeholders, media, attended the ceremony. The events was also attended by people from all walks of life including representatives from travel trade & hospitality sector, hoteliers, Govt. officials, students, media and others.