M'lore: Colourful Celebrations Enliven Republic Day Observance
Daijiworld Media Network – Mangalore (KM/NR)
Pics: Dayanand Kukkaje
Mangalore, January 26: "The state government has introduced the 'Adarsha Vivaha' scheme with a view to promoting cost effective mass marriages, with cash incentives given as part of the scheme. The 'Sandhya Suraksha' scheme has also been implemented to provide social security to senior citizens aged above 65 years of age," informed M Maheshwara Rao, DC of DK district enumerating the various schemes undertaken by the state government.
"Moreover the government as per the 'Anthya Samskara' scheme also distributes Rs 1000 in case earning members of below-the-poverty line families pass away," informed Maheshwara Rao while addressing a huge gathering at the 59th district-level Republic Day celebrations organized by the district administration of DK district, held at the Nehru Maidan here on Saturday January 26.
In the course of his speech he assured that all necessary measures have been undertaken to ensure that 'Bhagya Lakshmi Scheme' would be fully implemented by March 2008. This scheme accords financial assistance to girls born into below-the-poverty line families," he clarified. In the later part of his speech making a fervent appeal to all in view of the tense situation in some parts of the city he said "it is every one's bounden duty to foil the conspiracy to weaken the integrity, peace and the democracy of the country and state."
The earlier part of the day witnessed the delegates gathering here together, with the flag being hoisted by the DC after which the national anthem was sung by the choir. This was followed by a parade by various NCC wings and police battalions. Also as part of the celebrations cultural programmes were presented by students of various educational institutions of the city. Present on the occasion was Pradeep Kumar Kalkura, president of Kalkura foundation and several others.
As part of the republic day celebrations a 'Vintage Car Carnival 2008' was also organized by the UAE exchange on the occasion. About 30 cars and five bikes took part in the rally. The car models were of 1952, 1939, 1969, 1961, 1952 and others. This is the fifth consecutive car carnival being held and is in fact an annual carnival, organized only on republic day. "It gives recognition to car owners and their 'legendary vehicles," said Sudhir BK, president of Mangalore Motor Sports Association (MMSA), while speaking to daijiworld correspondent.
"The car carnival will be flagged off by the DC at Nehru maidan, which will then traverse via AB Shetty circle, to St Agnes circle than proceed towards Lady Hill circle before finally concluding at Sultan Battery," further informed the president of MMSA.