Mon Aug 18 12:10:00 UTC 2025: **Here’s a summary of the text, followed by a rewritten news article:**
**Summary:**
The Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI) held its 79th Independence Day celebration in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, marking the first high-level meeting by a national institution in the region since a terrorist attack in April claimed 26 lives. The gathering of ICAI members and their families aimed to rebuild trust and signal a return to normalcy. ICAI President Charanjot Singh Nanda emphasized the institute’s commitment to standing with the Valley, promoting lasting peace, and supporting economic revival. The event was initially scheduled for May but postponed due to the attack. Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah thanked the ICAI for their presence, seeing it as a message of confidence and support for the region. Prime Minister Modi also emphasized self-reliance in his Independence Day speech and warned of attempts to change India’s demography.
**News Article:**
**ICAI Celebrates Independence Day in Pahalgam, Sending Message of Hope After Terror Attack**
*Pahalgam, August 15, 2025* – The Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI) marked India’s 79th Independence Day in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, in a gesture of solidarity and hope following a devastating terrorist attack earlier this year. The gathering of approximately 150 ICAI members and their families represents the first high-level meeting by a national institution in the region since the April 22nd attack, which claimed the lives of 26 civilians.
“Our presence here is more than symbolic; it is a testament to hope,” stated ICAI President Charanjot Singh Nanda, after hoisting the national flag at the Pine and Peak Hotel. Nanda emphasized the institute’s commitment to rebuilding trust, signaling a return to normalcy, and working towards lasting peace and shared prosperity in the Valley.
The ICAI’s decision to hold its 445th council meeting in Pahalgam, from August 12-14, was a conscious effort to support the community still reeling from the aftermath of the terror attack. Originally planned for May, the event was postponed following the incident.
Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah met with ICAI members prior to the Independence Day celebration, expressing his gratitude for their presence. “Your presence here has a lot of weight,” Abdullah said. “It sends a powerful message of confidence and support.”
The event was held against the backdrop of Prime Minister Modi’s Independence Day address, where he emphasized self-reliance and warned of attempts to destabilize India.
First Piper 