By OUR STAFF REPORTER
DEHRADUN, 27 Jan: Republic Day was celebrated with fervour across Uttarakhand on Sunday. The main state level function was held at Parade Ground where Governor Lt Gen (Retd) Gurmit Singh and Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami participated while district level functions were held at district headquarters in all the 13 districts. In addition, various government departments and corporations also celebrated the Republic Day by hoisting the tricolour. The Republic Day was also celebrated in the schools and colleges across the state.
The main programme featured a ceremonial parade, flag hoisting, and the showcasing of several vibrant tableaux. Various military forces demonstrated their valour, and students performed cultural programmes, adding to the festive atmosphere.
A highlight of the event was the tableau by the Information Department, based on the upcoming 38th National Games in Uttarakhand. This tableau, which also featured the traditional Uttarakhand sport of Mallakhamb, secured first place in the state-level competition held at the Parade Ground. Governor Gurmit Singh and Chief Minister Dhami presented the award to Director General Information, Banshidhar Tiwari, for this achievement. The tableau reflected the state’s pride in hosting the National Games and its dedication to promoting traditional and modern sports.
The event was conducted under strict security arrangements. Entry of vehicles, carts, and hawkers around the Parade Ground was prohibited. Only pass-holders and VVIPs were allowed near the venue, while common citizens parked at designated locations and entered on foot. Police established inner and outer barriers to ensure smooth operations and crowd management.
In his address, the Governor paid homage to freedom fighters, martyrs, and key architects of the Indian Constitution, including Mahatma Gandhi and Bhimrao Ambedkar. He highlighted India’s remarkable achievements across various sectors, including science, technology, sports, and culture. He expressed confidence in India’s trajectory, stating that the government and the people have set a target of making India a developed nation by 2047, the centenary year of India’s independence. Today, India has emerged as a strong global presence, becoming one of the largest economies and the third-largest startup ecosystem in the world.
Singh also emphasised Uttarakhand’s significant contributions to the nation’s progress. He commended the state government’s efforts and the dedication of its citizens in driving economic and social development. He also observed that Uttarakhand is rapidly moving towards becoming one of the leading states in the country. The Republic Day concluded with a vibrant display of cultural diversity and national pride.
