Mumbai :  “Restraint and discipline is the need of the hour for overcoming — and ensuring freedom for the State and the country from — COVID-19 to celebrate the next Independence Day in a Corona-free environment,” was Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray’s message at the flag-hoisting ceremony at Mantralaya on the 74th anniversary of Independence on August 15.   

“Safeguarding and upholding values of freedom obtained through the martyrs sacrifices is our duty and responsibility,” the Chief Minister said here while highlighting also the ‘Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsava’ year while paying homage to the country’s freedom-fighting martyrs. The Chief Minister later interacted with the +Corona Warriors+ and award winners.  

Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj not only battled the aggressive invaders while also sowing the seeds of freedom struggle, but also inspired motivation and confidence in overcoming the enemies,” Thackeray said while noting that Rajarshi Shahu Maharaj, Mahatma Jotiba Phule, Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar broke the shackles of evil practices and inequality in society by highlighting the true meaning of freedom, equality and also the importance of freedom.  

While the battle against the dreaded Corona virus continued with it “resurfacing” in some countries, the first and second waves created havoc but had been brought under control while still requiring strict precautions, he cautioned while warning that despite relaxing restrictions, effects of oxygen capacity and rising infection figures would necessitate imposing lockdown again.  

Paying homage to the many Corona warriors including those who had lost their lives in the day/night battle against this disease, the Chief Minister said that the anti-COVID-19 vaccination in Maharashtra had gained momentum in the nation-wide campaign by vaccinating 9.5 lakh people on August 14 itself.