Jammu, Jan26: The Jammu & Kashmir Waqf Board today celebrated the 77th Republic Day with great enthusiasm and patriotic spirit at the Waqf Office, Jammu. The National Flag was unfurled by the Chairperson of the J&K Waqf Board, Dr Syed Darakhshan Andrabi, Minister of State, J&K, in the presence of dignitaries, Board members, religious scholars and socio-political activists. Shri Ashok Koul, State General Secretary (Organisation) BJP graced the occasion as the Chief Guest. The programme was also attended by Board Members Dr Ghulam Nabi Haleem and Syed Mohammad Haqani, noted Imam-o-Khateebs, prominent social and political activists of Jammu Province, officers and employees of the Waqf Board. Addressing the gathering, Dr Syed Darakhshan Andrabi highlighted the historic significance of Republic Day in shaping India as a strong, sovereign and progressive nation. She called upon citizens to uphold the ideals enshrined in the Constitution and contribute responsibly towards nation-building, social harmony and inclusive development.
The Chairperson presented a detailed overview of the remarkable transformation of the Jammu & Kashmir Waqf Board over the last three and a half years. She recalled that the organisation was once struggling to meet basic operational commitments, including timely payment of salaries, but has now emerged as a self-sustaining and professionally managed institution. She stated that the Board has witnessed substantial improvement in revenue generation, effective management of Waqf properties and focused utilisation of resources for public welfare. Major emphasis has been laid on upgradation of shrine infrastructure, development of essential amenities and ensuring dignity, cleanliness and convenience for devotees—facilities that had remained long-pending for decades.
Dr Andrabi further highlighted that during this period, the Waqf Board has strengthened transparency, improved governance practices, enhanced staff welfare, and initiated development-oriented projects aimed at preserving religious heritage while aligning it with modern requirements. The renewed focus on accountability and service delivery has restored public confidence in the institution.
The celebrations also included the felicitation of top performers of the year in various categories, recognising dedication, efficiency and commitment to public service. The gesture was appreciated by employees and attendees alike as a morale-boosting initiative. The programme concluded with a reaffirmation of collective resolve to work for the welfare of society, protection of Waqf assets and the continued progress of the institution in the spirit of the Constitution of India.