Governor of Karnataka, H R Bhardwaj on Thursday hoisted what is claimed to be India’s largest tricolour anchored on the highest monumental flag pole in Karnataka, measuring 207 feet in height.
The flag measuring 72 feet in length and 48 feet in width, and weighing 31 kg, was hoisted at the National Military Memorial on T Chowdaiah road opposite the Indira Gandhi Musical Fountain Park. The hoisting of the flag was an initiative undertaken by the Flag Foundation of India (FFI).
Fundamental right
President of the FFI and industrialist Naveen Jindal, who was present on the occasion, said that the hoisting of the flag was scheduled for January 23 as it marked the 10 anniversary of the Supreme Court judgement that ruled the hoisting of the national flag as a fundamental right of the citizens.
“We have taken permission from the home ministry to keep the flag hoisted at all times. The flag will be well lit through the evening and can be seen at all times,” said Mr. Jindal, a Congress MP.
11th monumental flag
The flag, made of weather proof polyester fabric (Deneir Polyester), is the 11 monumental flag in the country. A ‘monumental flag’ is one that is hoisted at a tall height and not lowered at dusk. The FFI has so far established 33 flag posts in the country that are 100 feet in height. The hoisting of the flag, that was conducted using a remote control, took five minutes.
Following it, Mr. Bhardwaj said: “In the past, freedom fighters had been caned for attempting to fly the tricolour. Today is a day of inspiration for citizens.
The Governor further said that while other countries fly their flags throughout, India was different in this respect.
“There are many people who show disrespect to the flag. It is important to preserve its sanctity,” he remarked.
Personnel shortage
The Governor also said that there was a shortage of officers in the Defence Department. In this vein, he urged the youth to choose defense as a career instead of opting for corporate jobs as the former was symbolic of commitment and devotion towards the country.
Symbol
MP and Chairman of the National Military Memorial Committee, Rajeev Chandrashekar said that the military memorial, where the flag was hoisted, was the first of its kind in the country and was “a grateful thanksgiving” to the armed forces. “The city is home to a lot of veterans and this memorial is a symbol of national service,” he said.
