POONCH, Aug. 16 -- Minister for Jal Shakti, Forest, Ecology and Environment and Tribal Affairs, Javed Ahmed Rana, on Saturday hoisted the National Flag at the main Independence Day function held at Sports Stadium Poonch and assured all possible assistance to families affected by recent heavy rains in the district.

The Minister took the salute at a ceremonial parade comprising contingents of the Jammu and Kashmir Police, India Reserve Police (IRP), Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), Forest Protection Force, National Cadet Corps (NCC) cadets and school students.

Addressing the gathering, Rana paid tributes to freedom fighters and national leaders and called upon citizens to contribute towards building an inclusive and prosperous nation....