Thursday, July 31, 2025
As part of the Independence Day celebrations, the Department of Political Science, in collaboration with the Electoral Democracy and Education Cell, organized a one-day special lecture titled "Dawn of Independence: India, Then and Now" on 31st July 2025 in the Conference Hall. The programme commenced with the introductory remarks of Prof. Farooq Ahmad Malik, HOD Political Science in which he underscored the significance of Independence Day not only as a celebration of joy and freedom but also as a crucial moment for national introspection. He emphasised the importance of cultivating a strong national ethos and remembering the immense sacrifices made by our freedom fighters, enabling us to breathe in the air of independence. The keynote speaker of the event, Dr. Arshid Iqbal Dar, faculty of Political Science, delivered an insightful and thought-provoking lecture. Dr. Arshid delved deep into the meaning of independence, tracing the journey of India’s collective struggle against British colonial rule. His lecture offered a comprehensive analysis of India’s socio-economic, political, cultural, and educational landscape— comparing the pre-independence period with the present day in 2025. Through this comparative framework, Dr. Arshid powerfully reinforced the theme of "India, Then and Now," urging all present to appreciate and celebrate the country’s hard-earned freedom. He concluded with a call to the youth to remember the legacy of the freedom movement, emphasizing that a strong sense of civic and national ethics is rooted in understanding and honoring our historical past. The event concluded with a vote of thanks and a summary of the session’s key takeaways by Prof. Javaid Ahmad Kumar of the Political Science Department. Prof. Javaid emphasized the importance of Independence Day as both a celebration and a reminder of our journey from colonization to becoming a vibrant democracy and a globally influential power. The entire programme was conducted under the overall supervision and guidance of the principal, Prof. (Dr) Masood Ahmad Malik, ensuring its smooth and successful execution.