Agra: In a first of this kind initiative in Agra district, 89 gram pradhans of Etmadpur and Khandauli blocks will hoist the tricolor at public places on Independence Day . The decision was taken at a recently-held meeting between sub-divisional magistrate (SDM) of Etmadpur, Abhishek Kumar Singh, and the gram pradhans.SDM Singh said, “Our aim is to spread a sense of patriotism among local residents. Till now, national flags were only hoisted at government offices and schools. On August 15, at 8 am sharp, all gram pradhans of Etmadpur and Khandauli will hoist flags at the same time in public places. The entire episode will also be recorded by lekhpals and other on-duty officials.”When asked if hoisting was compulsory, he said, “It is a unanimous decision taken by all gram pradhans.”According to the SDM, this is the first time that such a large numbers of flags will be hoisted in rural areas of any district. Officials have also confirmed that a proper code of conduct to hoist flags have been given to the pradhans.Munesh Babu, pradhan of Mitwali gram panchayat in Etmadpur block, said, “In our village, we hoist the national flag every year to celebrate Independence Day. The SDM’s initiative is a welcome move and all residents must pay respect and homage to those who had laid down their lives for the country.”

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