Why in news:

• The Army recently dedicated to the people a 150-feet-high flagpole in Shopian district of Jammu and Kashmir to mark the Republic Day celebrations.
• As per the officials of the Army, it will be the tallest flagpole in the union territory.

Key Points:

• On the occasion of the 73rd Republic Day, the Chinar Corps in collaboration with Punit Balan Group installed a 150-feet-high mast National Flag in the historic town of Shopian.
• As per the army officials, installing the highest flagpole ushered in a new milestone in the history of south Kashmir.
• The second tallest flagpole is also located in Shopian district.
• The foundation stone was laid on 18 October 2021 at Army Goodwill School, Balapur in a colorful event and the flagpole was dedicated to the people of Shopian by Lt Gen D P Pandey, GOC Chinar Corps.
• The inauguration ceremony commenced with the unfurling of the national flag by the GOC Chinar Corps and the singing of the national anthem by the students of Army Goodwill School, Balapur.
• A drill by cadets of 1st J-K NCC Battalion, Srinagar showcased the pride of the local youth associated with the tricolour.
• The national flag is the greatest symbol of our national conscience as it represents the supreme collective expression of our commitment and loyalty to our motherland.
• The Lt Gen D P Pandey, GOC Chinar Corps on the occasion congratulated the efforts of the civil administration and citizens of Shopian.