From Our Special Correspondent
Daijiworld Media Network
Bengaluru, Jan 26: Karnataka Governor Thavar Chand Gehlot unfurled the national flag at the Field Marshal Manek Shwaw Parade Ground to mark the 74th Republic Day celebrations in Bengaluru on Thursday.
Chief Minister Basavaraj Bommai, Chief Secretary Vandita Sharma, Bengaluru Urban District Deputy Commissioner K A Dayananda and Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike Chief Commissioner Tushar Girinath received the Governor at the Parade Grounds on Mahatma Gandhi Road in Bengaluru.
The Governor, in his address, warmly praised Karnataka’s achievements in different fields and said State is one of the progressive states in the country and is implementing 14 Amrit Mahotsav Programmes for the benefit of the people.
``This is an occasion to reaffirm our commitment to strive hard for the development of our country. It is also an opportune time, especially in the context of Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsva, an initiative of the Central government to celebrate and commemorate 75 years of progressive and glorious history of India, culture and its achievements,’’ the Governor said, As per the sustainable development goals index of India 2020-21, he said Karnataka ranks 4 th in the country. He said Karnataka won first prize in Swachhata Hi Seva 2022 program of the Jal Shakti Ministry of the Centre.
Gehlot also said Karnataka has bagged the ‘Top Achiever’ position under the implementation of the ‘Ease of Doing Business’ ranking of States/Union territories released by the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) of the Centre.
The 11 th agricultural census commenced in the state in October 2022, for identifying marginal, small, medium and large farmers, he said pointing out that Karnataka was the first in the country in implementing the new education policy. After unfurling the national flag, Gehlot inspected the guard of honour from an open jeep. He received salutes from the armed forces, police, National Cadet Corps, Scouts and Guides, and hundreds of schoolchildren. After a low-key celebration for the last two years due to Covid pandemic, the Bengaluru District Administration, Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) and the Police
Department have made preparations to celebrate the 74th Republic Day in a grand manner this year at the Manekshaw Parade Grounds in the city.
Tight security has been maintained. CCTV cameras have been installed around the Parade Ground for security. Three fire tenders, two ambulances and a Rapid Action Force deployed at the venue. Contingent teams including Police Team, Kerala Women Police, Scouts, Guides, NCC, Seva Dal, Army, Air Force, CRPF participated in the Republic Day parade.
CM pays homage to Martyred Soldiers
Earlier, the Chief Minister paid homage to the Martyred soldiers at the National Military War Memorial in Bengaluru by offering floral tributes. Speaking to media persons afterwards, Bommai said it was the duty of all citizens to rededicate themselves to uphold the Constitution, follow it and pledge to work for the progress of the country.
The Chief Minister wished the people on the occasion of Republic Day celebrations and said India has emerged as a super power.
``India has a rich heritage, distinct and unique features. Our country is modern and progressive and humane and marching forward with the theme of Sab Ka Saath, Sab Ka Vikas, Sab Ka Prayas,’’ he said.
Bommai took the occasion to offer his greetings to the 8 eminent persons chosen for the prestigious Padma Awards by the Centre and described the eminent persons as Karnataka’s pride.
The eight persons from Karnataka-including former Chief Minister S M Krishna, Dr Sudha Murty and noted Kannada litterateur Prof S L Byrappa were selected for Padma awards.
``Prime Minister Narendra Modi has picked up people who have made rich contribution to the nation without any expectations but never cried for publicity. The Prime Minister has given preference to the achievements than other things while selecting them for the prestigious Padma awards. The selection of eight persons from Karnataka shows the bountiful talents that Karnataka have. The government will like to congratulate everyone,’’ Bommai added.