He expressed these views while chairing a meeting held at Deputy Commissioner Secretariat Matiari, regarding preparations for the Independence Day celebrations on August 14. Officials of the education department informed the meeting that various Independence Day programs have been underway since August 1 across the district and all three talukas of Matiari. The initiative aims to spread the message of plantation and environmental protection alongside the Independence Day celebrations. NGOs, in collaboration with the education department, would also involve women and other segments of society in Independence Day activities. Deputy Commissioner directed all concerned departments to ensure maximum participation of students, youth, women and citizens in Independence Day programs.