The Independence Day celebrations were held with patriotic fervour by district administrations, State and Central government institutions and various organisations across Kurnool, Nandyal and Anantapur districts on Saturday.

In Kurnool, Industries and Commerce Minister T.G. Bharath Gupta hoisted the national flag at the Police Parade Ground in the presence of District Collector A. Siri. Later, he honoured the family members of freedom fighters. “It is essential to honour the descendants of freedom fighters and remember the sacrifices they made. It is our responsibility to honour the families of the freedom fighters who sacrificed their lives for the cause of independence,” he said.

They were felicitated with shawls and flower garlands by the Minister, Collector and Superintendent of Police (SP) Vikrant Patil. Earlier, Mr. Bharath addressed the gathering, highlighting the achievements of the district in the past two years under the NDA government.

In Nandyal, Minority Welfare Minister N. Md. Farooq hoisted the national flag and paid rich tributes to the leaders born in the district who ignited the spirit of the freedom movement among the local people, such as Uyyalawada Narasimha Reddy, Gosayi Venkanna, Vadde Obanna, Nandyala Khadarabad Narasinga Rao, ‘Andhra Tilak’ Gadicherla Harisarvottama Rao, Yalluri Swami Reddy, Pendekanti Venkatasubbaiah, B.V. Subba Reddy, Gurram Venkata Reddy, and Gamago. He urged the public to embrace the ideals and goals of the great leaders.

He appreciated the district administration, working under the leadership of District Collector Rajakumari Ganiya, for accelerating the implementation of State government initiatives and striving to achieve progress across various programmes. “I appeal to all public representatives and officials to work in coordination and dedicate ourselves to placing Nandyal district at the forefront of development,” he said.

Meanwhile, Finance Minister Payyavula Keshav, after hoisting the national flag in Anantapur, said the government was trying to steer the district on the path of development across all sectors. “Under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu, and Deputy Chief Minister K. Pawan Kalyan, Andhra Pradesh has been making rapid strides towards reconstruction,” he said, adding that the coalition government was implementing the Super Six welfare schemes and development programmes, treating both as equally vital priorities.

“We intend to create thousands of jobs and employment opportunities by establishing industries in the district,” Mr. Keshav said, elaborating on the achievements of the district in various sectors over the past two years.

Published - August 15, 2026 07:39 pm IST