Baridua(Meghalaya), June 16: The University of Science & Technology Meghalaya today etched its name in history by hoisting a 150-ft National Tricolour at its Knowledge Park, becoming the first institution in the hills of India to fly a flag of this scale. Donated by Mumbai’s DK Flag Foundation, the monumental Tricolour now stands as one of the tallest National Flags in the region.
The flag was ceremonially hoisted by DK Flag Foundation chief Dr Rakesh Bakshi, popularly known as the flagman of India, along with USTM Women NCC Cadets and university members. The Meghalaya Police Band from the 1st MLP Battalion, Mawiong, under the command of Herbert G. Lyngdoh, IPS, delivered a stirring patriotic performance that set the tone for the event. The SFS School Girls Band from Narengi added to the celebration, while the entire gathering stood united for the National Anthem in a moment of deep emotion and pride.
Prof. G. D. Sharma, Vice-Chancellor of USTM, Orville Massar, Additional Superintendent of Police, Ri-Bhoi, Anil Bisht, DIG, CRPF, Dr Sanjay Deshmukh, former Vice-Chancellor of the University of Mumbai, and Mahbubul Hoque, Chancellor of USTM, were present at the ceremony.
Dr Bakshi said he chose USTM for the installation because the university reflects values of integrity, discipline, inclusiveness, and nation-building. Chancellor Mahbubul Hoque thanked the DK Flag Foundation for selecting USTM to take responsibility for the tallest national flag in the region.
The DK Flag Foundation, founded by Dr Bakshi, is a non-profit initiative that promotes respect for the Indian National Flag and fosters patriotism. It has installed monumental flags at Raj Bhavan in Mumbai, the University of Mumbai, Haj House, Ratnagiri Collectorate, and other public institutions, while creating awareness about the Flag Code of India.
Established in 2011, USTM is Northeast India’s first state private university in science and technology. Accredited with an A Grade by NAAC in its first cycle in 2021, the university continues to focus on teaching, research, innovation, and community engagement, with an emphasis on inclusivity, sustainability, and regional development.
