Carmel College of Arts, Science & Commerce for Women, Nuvem celebrated the 79th Independence Day of India with great fervour and patriotic spirit on 15th August 2025. The programme commenced with the arrival of the Chief Guest, PI Sudiksha Naik, who was escorted to the flag area by NCC cadets through a pilot drill. The compere for the day, Nicole Coutinho, NSS Programme Officer, warmly acknowledged the presence of the Chief Guest along with other dignitaries — Dr. Aldina Braganza e Gomes, Principal of the college, Sr. Isha Priya, Manager of Carmel College, Sr. Doris, Education Consultant and Sr. Marinelle, Principal of Carmel Higher Secondary School.
The flag hoisting ceremony was held at 8:30 a.m., performed by the Chief Guest, and was followed by the rendition of the National Anthem. Immediately after, the NCC cadets presented a march-past drill, showcasing discipline, precision, and patriotism. This was succeeded by a solemn prayer led by Nicole Coutinho, invoking God’s blessings for the nation. The Principal then delivered the welcome address, highlighting the significance of Independence Day and its relevance to the present generation.
Blanche Vaz, NSS Programme Officer, introduced the Chief Guest as the Police Inspector in the Anti-Human Trafficking Unit, Margao, and the Women & Child Protection Unit, Margao. The Principal then presented her with a potted plant as a token of appreciation. In her address, PI Sudiksha Naik urged students to value the hard-earned freedom of the nation, emphasising that they are the future torchbearers. She also expressed her gratitude to the Principal and management for inviting her back to her alma mater.
The gathering then moved to the auditorium for the cultural programme. The sequence began with a powerful street play titled Desh Nidla by Vishwapratap Pawar (Assistant Professor in Konkani) and his team, shedding light on the pressing issue of human trafficking in India, particularly affecting women. Their energetic performance left a lasting impact on the audience. Vishwapratap also spoke briefly about the medium of street plays, explaining how they are often rooted in social causes and movements.
This was followed by a patriotic solo song by Valensia Chakraborty (FYBA) and a patriotic speech by Tammana (FYBA). Prizes were then distributed to the winners of the Tiranga Rangoli Competition organised on 13th August 2025 by NSS Unit as part of the Har Ghar Tiranga campaign. The cultural segment concluded with a patriotic dance performance featuring the waving of the national flag, evoking a strong sense of unity and pride.
The celebration drew to a close with a heartfelt Vote of Thanks delivered by Dr. Janet Mascarenhas, NSS Programme Officer, who acknowledged the efforts of all contributors and participants in making the event a success.