Army personnel to be special guests at school Independence Day functions

Schoolchildren will have special guests amongst them this year to celebrate Independence Day. As per the directions from the government, all government schools will invite former and serving army personnel from their respective areas as special guests to the Independence Day functions.

“The Army personnel could share their memorable experiences with the students. It would encourage and inspire the students to join the armed forces,” said Ashish Kohli, Director, School Education. A career in armed forces is most sought after among the youth of the state and having former and serving army personnel among them for the Independence Day celebrations will further encourage them to join the armed forces.

As per the directions to the schools, the senior-most army personnel present at the function would be given the honour of unfurling the flag. “It’s a very good decision. It will give schools and society in general an opportunity to honour and acknowledge the role of army personnel,” said Sandeep Sharma, principal, Government Senior Secondary School, Cheog.

The principal further said that they have already sent invites to the army personnel of their panchayats. “From next year, we will try and invite the army personnel from the adjoining panchayats as well,” he said.

Surender Pundir, chairman of the state lecturers association, welcomed the decision. “The Independence Day function had become quite low-key in schools over the years. The decision to invite the army personnel as special guests to the function will make the function vibrant,” said Pundir. “Besides, the army personnel would also feel good that their role and contribution to the country is appreciated and acknowledged,” he said.