Mysuru: “India has emerged as one of the strong nations in the world, and we must work hard to ensure it continues to grow economically, socially and in the field of education,” said minister for higher education GT Devegowda , who is also Mysuru’s district in-charge minister at the Torchlight Parade Grounds here on Wednesday.Devegowda, who unfurled the national flag to mark the 72nd Independence Day celebrations, stressed the need to maintain unity in the country, while emphasising the importance of framing policies to make India self-reliant. Pointing to India’s young demographic, Devegowda said, “Majority of India’s population is young, and we must utilise their potential in all fields. Their achievements in science, technology, medicine, agriculture and industry will help realise the dream of a skilled India.”Devegowda said that the education system should be revamped to eradicate superstition, illiteracy and ignorance. Highlighting the role played by women in the nation-building process, the minister said, “Women should be provided opportunities on all spheres. We need an India that is for the downtrodden, exploited classes and the differently abled.”The minister called on people to remember the sacrifices of freedom fighters such as Rani Laksmibai of Jhansi, Rani Channamma, Sangolli Rayanna, Subhash Cnahdra Bose, Mahatma Gandhi, Chandrashekhar Azad, Balgangadhar vTilak, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel , BR Ambedkar and Jawaharlal Nehru More than 2,000 students from various city schools participated in the Independence Day celebrations, unfazed by the rain that poured on Wednesday morning. More than 400 students from Rotary Brindavan School, and 650 students from government schools, besides 350 from Saint Anthony High School and 700 from Good Shepherd Convent mesmerised the spectators with their performance.schools, over 350 students from Saint Anthony high school, and over 700 students from Good Shepherd Convent took part in the celebrations and mesmerized the audience with their performance.As the Independence Day parade was a sight to behold, some who performed exceptionally were awarded on the occasionArmed policeFirst place: Railway protection forceSecond place: Karnataka Police AcademyThird: City Armed forceCivil CategoryFirst place: NCC Air forceSecond place: Forest department women’s wingThird place: NCC ArmySchoolsFirst place: Jawahar Navodaya BoysSecond place: Jawahar Navodaya GirlsThird Place: Police Public School

Stay updated with all the Latest Mysore headlines here. For more exclusive & live news updates from all around India, stay connected with NYOOOZ.