Kolkata: West Bengal will organise the 'Rakhi Bandhan' festival every year as a state government programme, Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari said on Monday while taking part in a 'Har Ghar Tiranga' rally here as part of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's campaign ahead of Independence Day.
Adhikari led the march from 'Goshto Pal Sarani' in the city's Maidan area to the North Gate of Victoria Memorial, carrying the national flag as the state government participated in the Centre's 'Har Ghar Tiranga' campaign for the first time.
"This year, Rakhi Bandhan will be observed officially. Rakhi Bandhan is not only about its religious significance; it strengthens the bond among all of us. We want to rebuild West Bengal and make it the best state in India," Adhikari said.
At the rally, the Bengal CM was joined by state Transport Minister Arjun Singh, Health Minister Sharadwata Mukhopadhyay, other BJP MLAs and leaders.
The state government has planned to distribute around 70 lakh national flags under the campaign and is also organising several programmes to promote it, officials said.
Adhikari also said arrangements were being made to illuminate important government buildings and heritage cultural institutions in the colours of the Tricolour.
"Business establishments, the industrial sector, shopping malls and private institutions are also being encouraged to participate in the campaign. Patriotic songs, quizzes and cultural programmes will also be organised," he said.
Ahead of Independence Day, the administration has planned a series of events across districts, including Tricolour marches, flag displays and programmes aimed at creating awareness about the proper respect for the national flag.
"The campaign is aimed at encouraging people across the state to participate in the Independence Day celebrations by displaying the national flag at their homes and taking selfies," a senior bureaucrat said.
