Rohit Kumar
Sri Vijaya Puram, 31 December 2024
The 13th Shaheed Swaraj Dweep Samooh Naman Yatra, organized by the Shaheed Swaraj Foundation, took place from December 27th to 30th, 2024, at Sri Vijaya Puram, to commemorate the historic first-ever hoisting of the Indian Tricolour on Indian soil by Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose on December 30, 1943. The event brought together around sixty nationalists from various states across India, alongside local islanders, to honour India’s freedom struggle.
The Yatra began on December 27th with a seminar at the Chinmaya Mission in Sri Vijaya Puram, where participants engaged in discussions on national security, patriotism, and India’s freedom movement. The seminar served as an important platform to reflect on the need for unity and collective action in safeguarding the nation’s heritage.
The main event took place on December 30th at the Andaman Club, where attendees gathered to pay tribute to Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose and all freedom fighters. This gathering highlighted the ideals of patriotism, sacrifice, and unity, leaving participants with a renewed sense of pride in India’s history.
Mr. Indresh Kumar, the Margdarshak of the Rashtriya Suraksha Jagran Manch (Forum for Awareness of National Security), delivered a speech emphasising the profound significance of the historic day. He recalled how, on December 30, 1943, Netaji hoisted the Tricolour for the first time on Indian soil at the Gymkhana Ground, now known as Netaji Stadium, in Sri Vijaya Puram. This act marked the Andaman and Nicobar Islands as the first Indian territory liberated from colonial rule.
Netaji’s role in the independence movement was further underscored by Mr. Kumar, who reminded the audience of his formation of a government in exile and his unwavering commitment to India’s liberation. The event is seen as a major turning point in India’s struggle for freedom.
The Yatra concluded with a commemorative function at Flag Point, where the national flag was hoisted in tribute to Netaji’s unparalleled contribution to India’s independence. The ceremony reaffirmed the importance of preserving Netaji’s legacy and ensuring that his sacrifices continue to inspire future generations.
Mr. Girish Arora, President of the Shaheed Swaraj Foundation’s Andaman & Nicobar Chapter, also spoke at the event, highlighting the Foundation’s ongoing efforts to organise initiatives that promote national awareness and honour the sacrifices of Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose and other heroes of the freedom movement.
The 13th Shaheed Swaraj Dweep Samooh Naman Yatra concluded with a strong message of patriotism, sacrifice, and unity, reinforcing the commitment of all participants to uphold the values that defined India’s independence.