Belagavi (Karnataka), Dec 9 (NationPress) The second-largest Khadi Tricolour globally has been unveiled on the western steps of Suvarna Vidhana Soudha in Karnataka's Belagavi, as announced by the Chief Minister's Office.

After unveiling the flag, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah emphasized that the Indian Tricolour is not just a piece of Khadi fabric but a representation of the nation's pride and dignity.

During his speech, the Chief Minister expressed his gratitude to Assembly Speaker U.T. Khader for making this initiative a reality and acknowledged the contributions of Vinod Kumar Revappa Bammanna from Kamalapur in Kalaburagi district, who provided the flag.

"The Tricolour was embraced during the freedom struggle. It is more than cloth; it is a reflection of India’s esteem and dignity. The flag's colors, including saffron, white, and green, along with the Ashoka Chakra, symbolize national pride, economic resilience, sacrifice, and peace, conveying a strong message of patriotism," stated the CM.

He elaborated that white stands for peace and truth, while green denotes prosperity. The Ashoka Chakra represents the nation's advancement and the establishment of equal opportunities for all.

“We should regard our national flag with reverence and pride. Each citizen must nurture patriotism. On this occasion, we must honor those who dedicated their lives for the nation. Under the leadership of Mahatma Gandhi, the freedom movement was organized. Gandhi also presided over the Congress session in Belagavi. As we commemorate 100 years since that historic event, a statue of Gandhi has been placed next to Suvarna Soudha," he remarked.

“Patriotism must resonate with all of us. India comprises diverse castes and religions. We must uphold secularism and foster love amongst ourselves to build a just society. Otherwise, establishing a secular nation will be challenging,” he added.

“It has been 79 years since we attained Independence. We should reflect on our journey regarding brotherhood, patriotism, and human values in society. Without these, living as true humans is impossible. This spirit should flourish among students and youth,” he concluded.

“We are ensuring that Dr. B.R. Ambedkar's Preamble to the Constitution is read in educational institutions. Thus, we are organizing such historic celebrations,” expressed the Chief Minister, thanking Vinod Kumar Revappa Bammanna for his generous donation of the national flag.

Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar commended the project, asserting that showcasing the enormous Tricolour at Suvarna Soudha conveys a powerful message of patriotism to future generations.

He was addressing attendees at the grand unveiling of the massive national flag on the prominent steps of Suvarna Soudha in Belagavi.

“Kudos to Speaker Khader for achieving new milestones. Last year, to mark the centenary of Mahatma Gandhi's leadership in the freedom movement, the Speaker installed a statue of Gandhi at Suvarna Soudha. Many prominent figures, including Rajya Sabha Opposition Leader Mallikarjun Kharge, Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, and others, participated in that event. Today, a colossal Tricolour prepared by our Khadi Centre in Dharwad has been displayed at Suvarna Soudha,” he stated.

“On behalf of the citizens of the state, I commend the Speaker and his team. This is an exemplary endeavor that should serve as a model for all. The public must have the chance to see it. Congress members carry the national flag with pride and patriotism in their hearts,” he added.