West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Sunday urged the central government to declare Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose’s birthday a national holiday. A few days after the central government decided to start celebrating Republic Day on January 23 to include Bose’s anniversary, the central government declared it “Parakram Diwas” (Day of Valor).

“We reiterate our call to the central government to declare Netaji’s birthday a national holiday so that the whole country can pay tribute to the national leader and celebrate #DeshNayakDibas in the most appropriate way,” Mamta Banerjee said in a tweet.

Banerjee paid tribute to the iconic leader, saying: “He is the epitome of patriotism, courage, leadership, unity and brotherhood. Netaji has been and will continue to be an inspiration for generations to come”.

On Republic Day this year, West Bengal will be presenting an image on Netaji that will also feature other prominent freedom fighters in the state to mark the 75th anniversary of India’s independence.

Banerjee announced that West Bengal will soon set up a separate Bengal State Planning Commission.

She added: “Taking inspiration from Netaji’s ideas for the State Planning Commission, a Bangladesh Planning Commission will be formed to help the state’s planning initiatives.” Banerjee highlighted some of the state’s long-term initiatives, she said Jai Hind The University’s collaborative project is established with 100% state funding.

She added that the West Bengal government will celebrate Netaji’s 125th birthday in a proper manner across the state in accordance with all Covid-19 protocols.

Complete News Source : Hindustan Times