New Delhi, Jan 28 (SocialNews.XYZ) The CISF on Tuesday was adjudged the "best marching contingent" amongst paramilitary and other auxiliary contingents during Republic Day parade, 2020 at Rajpath, the force said.

This is sixth time that Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) contingent won the "best marching contingent" trophy at Republic Day parade, the earlier occasions being in 2007, 2008, 2013, 2015 and 2017.

The CISF contingent this year comprised 148 officers and personnel, including 3 lady sub-officers, and was led by Deputy Commandant Prabh Simran Singh.

Source: IANS

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Lucknow, Jan 27 (SocialNews.XYZ) The latest Padma awardees from Uttar Pradesh have put in public spotlight the winners, some of whom are well known to the common man, while others are not so well known.

Among the nine eminent personalities from the state who have been named for the Padma awards is Pandit Chhannulal Mishra of Varanasi who has been conferred the Padma Vibhushan for his contribution to music.

A well known Hindustani classical singer and a noted exponent of the 'Kirana Gharana' of music, particularly of 'khayal' and 'thumri' singing, Misra was awarded the Padma Bhushan in 2010.

Of the total 118 Padma Shri winners this year, eight are from Uttar Pradesh.

Among them is Jeetu Rai, a shooter specializing in 10 and 50-meter pistol events. He is a serving Junior Commissioned Officer in the 11 Gorkha Rifles headquartered in Lucknow. Rai participated in the 2011 National Games where he represented Uttar Pradesh. He is currently training with the Army Marksmanship Unit in Mhow, Madhya Pradesh.

Another recipient is the Lucknow-based author Yogesh Parveen, 80, who is known for his work in Hindi and Urdu literature. His huge body of work includes extensive research on Lucknow's history and cultural heritage. Often known as an encyclopedia of Avadh, he has authored 20 books on Lucknow. He has been credited for his contribution to films like Satyajit Ray's "Shatranj Ke Khiladi" and Shyam Benegal's "Junoon" which were shot here in the Uttar Pradesh capital.

Awardee Narinder Nath Khanna is a well known physician. He has been director of the IMS-BHU. He has been given the award for his exceptional service to medical science. He is 86 years old but continues to regularly attends to patients.

Retired professor Harish Chandra Verma gets the Padma Shri for his contribution to science and engineering. He is currently associated as an adjunct faculty at the IIT- Kanpur. Verma was instrumental in setting up Shiksha Sopan, an NGO that helps children from underprivileged backgrounds get education.

Padmavathy Bandopadhyay, who has been conferred the Padma Shri for excellence in the field of medicine, can be described as one of the unsung heroes of medicine.

She has set an example for women across the world by becoming the first woman in the history of the Indian Air Force to be promoted to the rank of Air Marshal. A graduate of Armed Force Medical College in Pune, she had the distinction of being the first woman officer to become an aviation medicine specialist. She is also the first woman Fellow of the Aerospace Medical Society of India and was also the first Indian woman to have conducted scientific research at the North Pole.

An unusual name in the list is that of a bicycle mechanic Mohammed Sharif of Faizabad, who has performed last rites for over 25,000 unclaimed bodies that belonged to diffrent denominations - Hindu, Muslim, Christian and Sikh. He has been awarded for social work.

Around 27 years ago, Sharif's son was found dead and the police disposed of the body as 'unclaimed'. Since then, Sharif has been ensuring proper cremation or burial for the 'unclaimed' dead.

Retired IAS officer Daya Prakash Sinha also figures in the list of Padma Shri winners. He is also an eminent Hindi writer, playwright, director, historian, while his theatrical works have been continuously published, broadcast and staged for almost 50 years. Sinha, who has traveled to many countries as a cultural representative of India, has also received many other awards and honors.

Source: IANS

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Jaipur, Jan 27 (SocialNews.XYZ) Five people, who worked at the grassroots level in Rajasthan and took tasks that have helped promote cultural bonhomie, nature conservation and cleanliness, were honoured with the Padma Shri awards this year.

The awardees include Munna Master, whose son became the point of discussion for teaching Sanskrit in the Banaras Hindu University (BHU). The other awardees are: Usha from Alwar who promoted the message of cleanliness after being treated as an untouchable; Sundaram Verma from Sikar for bringing up new techniques to save water and planting trees; Himmataram Bhambhu for environment protection and Ustad Anwar Khan for promoting art.

They are all grassroot workers, who have contributed to the nation's development in one way or the other.

Munna Master (61), a resident of Bagru, is known as a Ram-Krishna Bhajan singer. He has been carrying on the family tradition of singing Sanskrit hymns since years as a part of his family's tradition, which goes several generations back. He has also written a book called 'Shree Shyam Surabhi Vandana'. Promoting the Ganga-Jamuna culture, he offers both the namaz and recites hymns. The man is also tends to the cows in his "gaushala". His son, Feroze Khan, had joined the BHU as a Sanskrit professor.

After coming to know that he has been honoured with the coveted award, he told mediamen: "Gau seva hi rashtra ki sachhi seva hai.(Serving the cow comes as the true service for the country."

Usha has been awarded for her contribution in the social work.

Married at the age of 10, she was treated as an untouchable by the people as she was engaged in the task of manual scavenging.

However, a major change was reported in Usha's life when she was associated with the'Sulabh International'. After joining this organisation, she started motivating people for cleanliness. She was invited to address the theme of 'Cleanliness and Women's Rights in India' at the annual conference of the British Association of South Asian Studies (BASAS).

Sundaram Verma from Sikar has planted over 50,000 trees using innovative technique to grow seven different crops within a time span of three years.

He has made a strong contribution to promote afforestation. Also, he has developed a dry land agroforestry technology to conserve environment and biodiversity of Shekhawati region in the state.

Verma has planted around 50,000 trees with the technique of saving water in which only one liter of water is needed to plant a tree.

His technique has been appreciated by Swaminathan, an eminent agricultural scientist who is regarded as the father of the Green Revolution in the country and he also received recognition from the water conservation department of the Rajasthan government.

Verma is a science graduate, who has participated in the exhibition held at the Rashtrapati Bhavan sometime back.

Awarded at the national level for agricultural research subjects, Verma collected more than 700 species of 15 crops of Rajasthan and studied them closely. He has also created the ideal crop cycle in which the farmer can grow seven crops in his own farm in three years. With this, the farmer will not only earn good profits, but the quality of the land can also be maintained while maintaining stability in the yield.

Himmatram (63) from Nagaur, has planted millions of trees and is an environment lover, He has been inspiring and motivating people to keep their forests safe. He also feeds birds and animals daily and has worked as a mechanic after leaving his school. The journey of Himmatram started by planting a peepal tree many years ago. Now, there are millions of trees planted by him due to which he was honoured with the Rajiv Gandhi Environmental Protection Award in 2014.

Ustad Manganiyar has been awarded for his unmatchable work to promote the art of Rajasthan in the country and abroad.

A total of 118 eminent personalities have been awarded this year for their contribution in the field of art, literature and education, medicine, trade and industry, sports, public affairs, social work and science and engineering.

Source: IANS

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Mumbai, Jan 27 (SocialNews.XYZ) Fifteen disabled Indian Army soldiers were felicitated by the Sri Shanmukhananda Fine Arts & Sangeetha Sabha to mark the 71st R-Day celebrations, an official said here on Monday.

As part of the Shanmukhananda's annual tradition, this year each soldier disabled in action was honoured with a cheque of Rs 1 lakh each, and mementos at the hands of Lt. Gen. S.K. Prashar, GOC-in-C, Maharashtra, Gujarat & Goa.

The Sabha President V. Shankar said that till date, the organization has honoured 43 soldiers who have been incapacitated while defending the nation.

While the Sabha honours the families of martyrs who have sacrificed their lives for the cause of the nation every year on August 15, Independence Day, it has also made a contribution of Rs 10 lakh each to the Paraplegic Unit of the Indian Army and the Artificial Limb Centre, both in Pune, said Shankar.

Lt. Gen. Prashar said that January 26 and August 15 remind us all that "we are the citizens of this country and these national days bring us together in the celebrations".

"Such functions to honour the army personnel bring confidence in the minds of other soldiers that the 'Society is with Us' in times of need. Although no amount of money or material can actually help wounded warriors or soldiers' widows, the emotional support of the society and the feelings for them truly helps heal their wounds," Lt. Gen. Prashar said.

Sabha spokesperson K.A. Viswanathan said the Sabha has forged "a unique partnership with the armed forces, and it is the first time that a civil society engaged in furthering fine arts joins hands with the armed forces to celebrate Independence Day and Republic Day, and work for the welfare of the armed forces personnel and their families".

Source: IANS

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Jind, Jan 26 (SocialNews.XYZ) Haryana Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar said here on Sunday the government was committed to welfare of all sections of society.

Speaking after presiding over the Republic Day function, he said 2020 would be celebrated as "Sushashan Sankalp Varsh" under which several schemes would launched to make the life of people easier, besides making them self-reliant in the fields of health, education and safety.

The Chief Minister, who also holds the Finance portfolio, said the upcoming budget would focus on making Haryana residents happy.

Villages would be made free from Lal Dora, he said and added, Sirsi in the Karnal district would be the first such village.

The Chief Minister said on the lines of the Kisan Credit Card, a Pashu Kisan Credit Card would be introduced for the advantage of the cattle rearing farmers.

Exhorting the youth to stay away from drugs, he said they must take care of their health. 2,000 health and wellness centers would be set up in rural areas, he added.

Source: IANS

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Itanagar, Jan 26 (SocialNews.XYZ) Arunachal Pradesh Governor Brig (retd) B.D. Mishra on the occasion of 71st Republic Day, here on Sunday, urged people to join hands with the state government to deal with "hydra-headed monster of corruption" for the sake of development.

After hoisting the national flag at the Indira Gandhi Park, Mishra said to curb corruption and ensure transparency, the government had developed satellite-based monitoring and geo-tagging tool and made it obligatory for all departments to geo-tag all schemes and projects.

The Governor said the state was adopting an inclusive approach with new technologies for the expansion of rail, road, air, water and internet networks.

Mishra said the state government was trying to get the Centre sanction two important road projects -- Frontier Highway and the East-West Corridor.

"While the Frontier Highway will provide seamless connectivity across the state, the East-West Corridor will act as an economic corridor and usher in industrial development," he said.

The Governor said construction of an airport at Hollongi, near here, and related infrastructure had begun and the Rs 1,000 crore project would be ready in three years.

Quoting a Finance Ministry report, he said the Goods and Services Tax (GST) collection in Arunachal Pradesh till December 2019 had recorded 124 per cent rise, the highest in the country.

The hydropower potential would take Arunachal from a resource constrained state to an economic affluent one and the Rs 28,080 crore Dibang multipurpose project with 2,880 MW generation capacity was a major step in this direction, he said. The hydroelectric project is expected to be commissioned in nine years.

On the state's industrial policy, he said the government aimed to make Arunachal investment-friendly by promoting the ease of doing business. "To promote tourism, the state government will soon come up with a comprehensive tourism development policy," he said.

Contingents of the police and central paramilitary forces, apart from schoolchildren, participated in the colourful march past. Performances of tribal dances also marked the R-Day celebrations.

Source: IANS

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New Delhi, Jan 26 (SocialNews.XYZ) In a symbolic protest over the Citizenship (Amendment) Act (CAA), the Congress sent a copy of the Constitution to Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the occasion of Republic Day, here on Sunday.

"Dear PM, the Constitution is reaching you soon. When you get time off from dividing the country, please read it," the Congress tweeted.

In a series of tweets, it slammed the central government on the CAA. "It is important to remember that it is enshrined in our Constitution that all persons are protected from discrimination of any form. Therefore, any attempt to draft laws based on discrimination is unconstitutional," it said.

The Congress also organised "the Preamble reading" programmes in all state capitals.

Earlier on the eve of the R-Day on Saturday, interim party chief Sonia Gandhi said the constitutional values were no longer safe.

"Today, the Constitution and its values are being attacked by way of a concerted and vicious conspiracy. Constitutional principles are being systematically encroached upon as also the independence of constitutional institutions is being scuttled at the whims of autocratic authoritarianism," Gandhi said in the statement.

Urging the citizens to protect the Constitution, she said it was the duty of every citizen to stand united in defence of the Constitution.

Gandhi said the agricultural sector and farmers were on the verge of devastation, the youth were ravaged by unfathomable unemployment and the country was facing recession and closure of factories.

Source: IANS

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Shillong, Jan 26 (SocialNews.XYZ) Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma on Sunday that his government's "Vision 2030" is designed to transform the state into a high-income Indian state and improve the well-being of every single individual in.

After unfurling the tricolour at the 71st Republic Day celebrations at the Polo Ground in the state capital, the Chief Minister told the gathering that "Vision 2030" has six core pillars - human development, primary sector rejuvenation, infrastructure expansion, entrepreneurship promotion, environmental protection and governance reform.

"A lot of work has been done on each of these pillars in the last two years," Sangma said.

Sagma unfurled the national flag here as Nagaland Governor Ravindra Narayana Ravi, who has additional charge of Meghalaya, was busy in Kohima in connection with the Republic Day celebrations in Nagaland.

Ravi, has assumed office as the Meghalaya Governor on December 17, after Meghalaya Governor Tathagata Roy had gone on leave in the third week of December last year following his controversial tweet asking those protesting in the state against the Citizenship (Amendment) Act (CAA) that those who do not want "divisive democracy should go to North Korea".

Sangma, in his address, said that the Meghalaya Democratic Alliance (MDA) government has a clear roadmap for the state to move forward in the next three years by building on its own strengths.

The Chief Minister also said that a skill development plan has been executed for the youth though various programs, including the Asian Development Bank funded scheme -- Supporting Human Resources in MeghalayaS

Speaking on the recently launched unique soft skills development program called "Aspire Meghalaya", wherein around 5,000 youth from Meghalaya are being trained, he said that these soft skills improve confidence levels and the communication abilities of the youth and the programme would cover more young people this year.

"With the launching of PRIME (Promotion and Incubation of Market-Driven Enterprises) scheme, the government is keen to reach out to and support all the enterprising youths of the state," he said.

Under the PRIME programme, all three categories of entrepreneurs -- Startup, Nano and Livelihood -- are being incubated in a systematic way.

"PRIME hubs would be set up in all district and block headquarters and these hubs would be managed professionally and would be vibrant spaces for innovation and knowledge sharing," he said.

The Chief Minister said that the state government is designing a funding program to support entrepreneurs, while a fund of Rs 10 crore has been created for this purpose.

"Entrepreneurship would be the key driver of growth and employment in the coming years in Meghalaya," he added.

The Chief Minister also said that the state government is working to achieve excellence in governance, quality education, economic and social upliftment and other infrastructural areas.

A colourful display of tableaus by different government departments, cultural dances and songs marked the Republic Day celebrations here.

The Chief Minister also distributed the Meghalaya Day awards to the winners.

Republic Day celebrations were also held in different district headquarters.

Sangma on Saturday flagged off the "Cultural Carnival" from Fire Brigade Field here. The carnival was held as a part of the week-long Meghalaya Day celebrations that culminated with the Republic Day event.

Source: IANS

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Imphal, Jan 26 (SocialNews.XYZ) Amid unprecedented security arrangements, the 71st Republic Day was celebrated across Manipur on Sunday with Governor Najma Heptulla unfurling the national flag in the main function at the historic Kangla Fort here.

The Governor also inspected the parade of the combined forces and took salute at an impressive march past by armed forces and state police personnel.

Around 120 contingents comprising Manipur police personnel and commandos, Border Security Force, Central Reserve Police Force, and other cultural troupes took part in the ceremonial parade.

Chief Minister N. Biren Singh also attended a separate event celebrating the Republic Day at the 1st Manipur Rifles Parade ground in the state capital.

While addressing the gathering, the Chief Minister said that balanced development, peaceful co-existence and mutual respect among all ethnic groups of the state are the need of the hour.

Singh has urged everyone to safeguard the integrity of the country including the state.

Highlighting the Bharatiya Janata Party-led government's plan and vision, the Chief Minister said that the main aim of the state government is to bring equal development of all sections of people and regions in the state.

"The state government has taken up multiple projects for the all round development in the mountainous areas of the state," he added.

In the Kangla Fort ceremony, a senior police officer was awarded the President's police medal for his distinguished service while six others got the police medal for their meritorious services.

Four officers were awarded the Union Home Minister's medal for excellence in police training.

According to the police and civil administration officials, the Republic Day celebrations across the state passed off peacefully and no untoward incident was reported despite the boycott call by some terrorist outfits.

Source: IANS

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Kohima, Jan 26 (SocialNews.XYZ) Nagaland Governor Ravindra Narayana Ravi on Sunday said that "some people with guns" have tried to undermine the historical reality of Nagaland and its unique constitutional status.

Joining the rest of the nation, the mountainous northeastern state celebrated the nation's 71st Republic Day with the Governor unfurling the national flag at the state civil secretariat plaza and taking the salute at the parade.

"Power through the barrel of a gun has been proved to be a failed ideology," said Ravi, who is also the Centre's interlocutor for the Naga peace talks.

He said: "We should resolve our differences through peaceful dialogue, not under the shadow of guns. Guns and corruption, are twin evils and have taken a toll on the Naga people."

The Governor also said that while the rest of the country, including India's neighbours along the northeast are marching towards greater prosperity, the people in Nagaland, are still craving for basic needs like motorable roads, functioning healthcare and schools with qualified teachers.

He called for the building of a "new Nagaland".

"The Nagaland government is prioritising improving the condition of the roads, creating good health and education infrastructure, livelihood projects, information technology networks and a conducive eco-system for innovation and entrepreneurship," Ravi said.

Later, he presented the Governor's Commendation Certificate and the Union Home Minister's Medal for excellence in police training in indoor and outdoor categories to the awardees.

Besides the cultural presentation, a Taekwondo drill display, Bhangra dance, contemporary dance and fusion music featured in the celebrations here.

Source: IANS

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Amritsar, Jan 26 (SocialNews.XYZ) Amid heightened India-Pakistan tensions, the Border Security Force (BSF) on Sunday did not exchange sweets with their Pakistani counterparts, the Pakistani Rangers, at the Attari-Wagah border on the occasion of India's 71st Republic Day.

"There were no exchange sweets as Pakistani Rangers did not respond to a message sent to them in this regard," a senior BSF official told IANS, requesting anonymity.

Border guards from both sides normally exchange greetings and sweets on prominent religious festivals and other occasions like the Independence Days of both countries as a goodwill gesture,.

However, a special cultural function was organised by the Indian authorities at the joint check post, some 30 km from Amritsar, where the national flag was hoisted in the morning and the symbolic Retreat ceremony, that saw a gathering of tens of thousands, was conducted in the evening.

Normally, before the Retreat ceremony, that includes the lowering of national flags and closing of the border gates on both sides, senior BSF officials exchanged sweets with their Pakistani counterparts. They also hug and shake hands with one another for a few minutes.

This time they shook hands but no hugging and exchange of sweets took place.

The visitors on the Indian side could be heard shouting pro-India slogans and dancing to the tunes of patriotic songs.

Source: IANS

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Shimla, Jan 26 (SocialNews.XYZ) Facing extreme freezing temperatures, people in Himachal Pradesh's remote Kaza town in the Spiti Valley celebrated India's 71st Republic Day.

The district administration hoisted the national flag at an altitude of 3,720 metre with temperature nearing minus 10 degrees Celsius.

Sub-divisional Magistrate Jeevan Singh Negi hoisted the national flag and took the salute from the marching contingents of the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP), the Indian Army, the police and the Home Guards.

Students of local Government Senior Secondary School performed a patriotic programme.

Subedar Ringjing Dorje, Capt C.N. Bodh, Border Roads Organisation engineer Rajinder Singh and state Public Works Department official Tashi Bodh were among those honoured.

Kaza is some 350 km from the state capital Shimla.

Source: IANS

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"For the first time, five Karnataka fire and emergency services officials have been awarded for rescuing 54 people from a building collapse at Dharwad on March 19, 2019," the official told IANS here.

Dharwad is about 430 km northwest of Bengaluru in the southern state.

The awardees are deputy director J.H. Ravishankar, 3 firemen Naveen Pavadi, Ashok Vadder and H.G. Dharanesha and fireman driver Siddappa Uppar.

"The fire and emergency services personnel work under difficult conditions in unknown terrain, often exposed to toxic gases, chemicals and face difficulty in breathing due to inhalation of smoke in fire-fighting operations," said the official.

Out of 13 fire service medals awarded across the country for gallantry on January 26, 2020, Karnataka bagged the highest -- 5.

"The 5 fire fighters exhibited a high level of competence and saved lives of those trapped in the collapsed structure," the official said.

In a related development, 19 Karnataka police officers were also awarded the President's medals for meritorious service.

"Karnataka Governor Vajubhai Vala presented the awards to the winners at the R-Day function at the Sam Manekshaw parade ground in the city centre earlier in the day," the official added.

Source: IANS

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Mumbai, Jan 26 (SocialNews.XYZ) Pomp, pageantry and patriotic fervor marked the 71st Republic Day celebrations with the participation of lakhs of people in Mumbai and across Maharashtra on Sunday.

The main official state function was held at the Shivaji Park where Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari led the state by unfurling the national Tricolour and then took the salute at a ceremonial parade.

Present on the occasion were Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray, his wife Rashmi Thackeray, Legislative Council Chairman Ramraje Naik-Nimbalkar, Speaker Nana Patole, Mumbai Mayor Kishori Pednekar, ministers, officials, diplomats, members of the armed corps stationed in Mumbai, prominent citizens, students and other invitees.

Addressing the gathering in Marathi, Governor Koshyari announced the launch of the state government's ambitious Rs 10 per meal 'Shiv Thali' scheme for the poor in the state. He stressed the state government's commitment to make the farmers debt-free and speed up development in the state.

Various units of the Indian Navy, Indian Coast Guard, CISF, State Reserve Police Force, Mumbai Armed Police, Mumbai Women Police, Mumbai Fire Brigade, Sea Cadet Corps, Road Safety Patrol, Bharat Scouts and Guides and others took part in a smart and colourful march past.

Eye-catching floats of various government departments and other branches were avidly watched by the enthusiastic gathering.

The ruling Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) allies Shiv Sena, Nationalist Congress Party and Congress organized R-Day functions across the state with all top leaders in attendance.

The NCP held the functions in Mumbai with party MP Supriya Sule unfurling the Tricolour and top leaders present, while Deputy CM Ajit Pawar attended an event in Pune.

The Mumbai Regional Congress Committee (MRCC) and the Maharashtra Pradesh Congress Committee also organised programmes at their respective headquarters in Mumbai.

The MRCC event at Azad Maidan saw top party leaders such as Eknath Gaikwad and others unfurling and saluting the national flag, while the MPCC event saw senior Congress leader C. Vamshi Reddy unfurl the Tricolour in the presence of a large number of other leaders.

The Opposition Bharatiya Janata Party also organized several functions across the state attended by Union Minister Nitin Gadkari in Nagpur, leader of Opposition Devendra Fadnavis, State unit chief Chandrakant Patil, ex-state ministers and others in different districts.

A R-Day function was held at the RSS headquarters in Nagpur where senior leader Suresh Bhaiyyaji Joshi unfurled the Tricolor and took the salute.

Western Railway General Manager Alok Kansal, Central Railway General Manager Sanjeev Mittal and Konkan Railway Chairman-cum-Managing Director Sanjay Gupta unfurled the Tricolour at their respective headquarters in colourful functions.

Big and small functions were also held in various government buildings, private companies, schools and colleges campuses, housing complexes, social organisations, and at various district collectorates across the state.

Prominent landmarks and important buildings such as Mantralaya, the BMC headquarters, the Western Railway and Central Railway HQ, the Siddhivinayak Temple and the Vitthal Temple.

The state and city police had deployed tight security all over Maharashtra to ensure incident-free celebrations.

Source: IANS

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Bengaluru, Jan 26 (SocialNews.XYZ) An Indian Air Force (IAF) helicopter kicked up a huge cloud of dust when it flew low over the Manekshaw parade ground in the city centre where the 71st Republic Day celebrations were held on Sunday.

"The IAF chopper flew at a low level (50-75 metres) over the ground while showering flowers as a welcome gesture, kicking up massive dust all around and forcing the gathering to cover their faces," a state official told IANS.

As part of the R-Day event every year, a military chopper flies over the ground from an altitude of 500 metres showing flowers to greet the crowds participating in the event.

As the chopper flew over the VIP area, state Governor Vajubhai Vala, Chief Minister B.S. Yediyurappa and other dignitaries, including invitees were engulfed by the dust as it hit them in their faces.

"The IAF pilots were forced to fly the chopper at a low level as a flock of birds, including eagles were circulating over the ground at the same time and encountering them would have resulted in a mishap," a defence official told IANS.

With the soil on the parade ground dry and loose after rehearsals were conducted on Friday, a blast of wind from the low-flying chopper kicked up the fine dust particles upto 10 feet high.

Hundreds of spectators, including VIPs were seen taking cover to escape the 'dust storm' the aircraft caused.

Source: IANS

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Hyderabad, Jan 26 (SocialNews.XYZ) Telangana celebrated the 71st Republic Day with the main official celebration undergoing a drastic change not just in the venue but also in its format.

There was no march past, no parade review by the chief guest, no tableaux or cultural programmes by school children.

In a departure from the past when Republic Day celebrations used to be held at sprawling Parade Grounds in Secunderabad, the celebrations were organized in the historic Public Gardens, adjacent to State Assembly in the heart of the city.

Governor Tamilisai Soundararajan unfurled the national flag in the presence of Chief Minister K. Chandrashekhar Rao, his cabinet colleagues and senior officials.

This was the first Republic Day celebration for Soundararajan after taking over as the governor.

Unlike in the past when the ceremony used to take at least two hours, the formalities this time were completed in just 35-minutes including governor's 25-minute speech.

The parade, comprising only five contingents, presented salute to the governor on her arrival, followed by flag hoisting and contingents marching off.

The ceremony was held in Public Garden, Hyderabad's oldest park built in 1846 by Sixth Nizam Mir Mahboob Ali Khan, the ruler of then Hyderabad State. It was organised in the backdrop of Jubliee Hall, considered an architectural masterpiece and built in 1913 during the reign of Seventh Nizam Mir Osman Ali Khan.

The venue was shifted following the decision of Chief Minister K. Chandrashekhar Rao that the Independence Day, Republic Day and State Formation Day celebrations be held in a place that would not cause any inconvenience to the people.

After formation of Telangana State in 2014, Rao had shifted the venue of Independence Day parade from Parade Grounds to historic Golconda Fort to highlight the rich cultural heritage of Telangana.

The Republic Day parade this time comprised just five contingents of Telangana Special Police, the Army and the Indian Air Force.

In the past, the governor used to stand in an open top vehicle to review the parade involving several contingents on the sprawling Parade Ground. The celebrations earlier involved participation of several contingents from various police wings, National Cadet Corps (NCC), National Service Scheme (NSS) and schools.

Several tableaux from various government departments also used to be part of the celebrations to highlight various government schemes.

The students from various government-run schools used to participate in cultural programmes. Officials said they have done away with the practice to save them from the inconvenience.

The governor, in her speech, said Telangana successfully overcame innumerable challenges under the visionary leadership of its Chief Minister Chandrashekhar Rao.

"Within a short period, the State had achieved great successes in several sectors and became a role model for the entire country. The State had also built strong foundations during its course of achievement of the goals in the last six years. The Telangana State is marching ahead on the path of development with lots of positive attitudes and renewed confidence," she said.

Source: IANS

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Guwahati, Jan 26 (SocialNews.XYZ) Constitutional safeguards would be accorded to the indigenous people of Assam and their political, cultural and linguistic rights would be protected forever, as the state government is fully committed in that regard, Governor Jagdish Mukhi said here on the occasion of the nation's 71st Republic Day on Sunday.

Unfurling the Tricolour during the main function at Veterinary college ground here in Khanapara, Mukhi said the state government was working with dedication to uphold the dignity of the Assamese people living in the Barak and Brahmaputra valleys , besides the hills and plains of the state.

The state government has already formulated a land policy which will secure the land rights of the indigenous people of Assam, said Mukhi. It has also requested the Centre to declare Assamese as the permanent state language.

"The state government is fully committed to the rights of the indigenous people of Assam," he said, referring to the stress laid on comprehensive implementation of the 1985 Assam Accord's Clause 6.

"The emphasis given on total implementation of Assam Accord's Clause 6 proves its aim and policy," the Governor said.

Clause six of Assam Accord pledges to provide constitutional, legislative and administrative safeguards to protect, preserve and promote the cultural, social, linguistic identity and heritage of the Assamese people.

The Union Home Ministry has formed a high-level committee led by retired judge of Gauhati High Court Biplab Sharma to examine the effectiveness of actions taken since 1985 to implement Clause 6 of the Assam Accord, and suggest measures towards that regard.

"Assam will benefit from their (panel) knowledge and experience. This committee will submit its report to the government very soon. After that, Assamese people will get constitutional safeguard and their political, cultural and linguistic rights will be protected forever," he said.

The state government was in the process of giving land deeds to the landless people, and one lakh such people will benefit from the scheme soon.

The Governor also referred to the surrender of large number of ultras on Thursday.

"On January 23, at least 644 members of eight organisations, including ULFA and NDFB, surrendered. We appeal to all organisations to adopt the path of peace. It is essential to have permanent peace," he said.

Source: IANS

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New Delhi, Jan 26 (SocialNews.XYZ) Spectators of Republic Day parade at Rajpath gave a standing ovation to the 49 little heroes of the country who came in decorated jeeps.

The people tried to connect with these 49 children, 18 girls and 31 boys, who were honoured with the Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar for the their exceptional achievement.

The awards were given to children for their merit of bravery, innovation, sports, arts, culture, social service, music or other fields.

Among the crowds, the parents were pointing out to their children explaining about the bravery of the little heroes. Few of them bestowed their blessings to the kids who waved back to them from the jeeps.

Two days ago, Prime Minister Narendra Modi while interacting with these little heroes had said, "I am amazed that at such age you all have performed incredible tasks. This must have inspired you to do more good deeds in future. You have shown courage to fight difficult situations."

He also asked the students to visit the war memorial and police memorial in New Delhi.

These children are from various states and union territories, including one each from Jammu and Kashmir, Manipur and Arunachal Pradesh.

Source: IANS

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New Delhi, Jan 26 (SocialNews.XYZ) "Now the real one comes, let us go in the front," said the crowd sitting on the back benches at Rajpath on the occasion of Republic Day after finding that a contingent of women bikers of Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) will perform daredevil stunts.

Defying security personnel, spectators moved ahead to take glimpse of a contingent of women bikers of CRPF, which performed daredevil stunts, for the first time. Even security personnel could not resist themselves to see the performance of the contingent led by Inspector Seema Nag who saluted the dais while standing atop a moving motorcycle.

The bikers performed several daring acts on moving bikes before a human pyramid on multiple motorcycles brought up the rear.

Head Constable Meena Chaudhary displayed the ready position to fire two 9mm pistols in both her hands while balancing herself amazingly on her motorcycle. Thereafter four daredevils donning the different uniforms worn by the force balanced themselves on a single bike. The formation was led by Head Constable Katke Lata.

Then came four daredevils in which three of them aimed rifles in different directions while riding a solo motorcycle. The CRPF flag march by seven daredevil women riders left the spectators mesmerized.

The people did not leave the place till the time the women bikers displayed their daredevilry. Assistant Sub-Inspector Sujata Goswami with five of her teammates sped down the Rajpath displaying their daring formation All Round Defence where four of them point their rifles in four directions while fifth one scans the surroundings with binoculars.

Then came two motorcycles supported by a beam in the hand of the women bikers. The formation was led by Head Constable Asha Kumari. In another formation, Head Constable Sangita Kumari was seen climbing up and down a ladder that was balanced on her motorcycle which was racing down the Rajpath.

In the end, pushing the limits of machine and human endurance, a 21-women daredevils on five motorcycles made a human pyramid leaving the spectators in awe.

Source: IANS

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Mumbai, Jan 26 (SocialNews.XYZ) Pomp, pageantry and patriotic fervour marked the 71st Republic Day celebrations with the participation of lakhs of people in Mumbai and across Maharashtra, here on Sunday.

The main official state function was held at the Shivaji Park, where Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari unfurled the National Tricolour and then took the salute at the ceremonial parade.

Present on the occasion were Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray, Legislative Council Chairman Ramraje Naik-Nimbalkar, Speaker Nana Patole, Mumbai Mayor Kishori Pednekar, ministers, officials, diplomats, members of the armed corps stationed in Mumbai, prominent citizens, students and other invitees.

Addressing the gathering in Marathi, Governor Koshyari announced the launch of the state government's ambitious Rs 10 per meal 'Shiv Thali' scheme for the poor in the state. He also spoke about the commitment of the state government to make the farmers debt-free and speed up development in the state.

Various units of the Indian Navy, Indian Coast Guard, CISF, State Reserve Police Force, Mumbai Armed Police, Mumbai Women Police, Mumbai Fire Brigade, Sea Cadet Corps, Road Safety Patrol, Bharat Scouts and Guides and others took part in a smart and colourful march past.

Eye-catching floats of various government departments dwelling on various themes like employment guarantee scheme, water conservation department, forest department and other branches were avidly watched by the enthusiastic gathering.

The ruling Maha Vikas Aghadi allies (MVA) -- the Shiv Sena, Nationalist Congress Party and Congress -- organised functions across the state.

The NCP held functions in Mumbai with party MP Supriya Sule unfurling the Tricolour and top leaders present, while Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar attended an event in Pune.

The Mumbai Regional Congress Committee (MRCC) and the Maharashtra Pradesh Congress Committee also organised programmes at their respective headquarters in Mumbai.

The MRCC event at Azad Maidan saw top party leaders like Eknath Gaikwad and others unfurl and salute the national flag, while the MPCC event saw state Congress party chief Balasaheb Thorat and other leaders unfurl the Tricolour.

The Opposition Bharatiya Janata Party also organised several functions across the state attended by Union Minister Nitin Gadkari in Nagpur, Leader of Opposition Devendra Fadnavis, State Chief Chandrakant Patil, ex-state ministers and others in different districts.

Republic Day function was also held at the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) headquarters in Nagpur where senior leader Suresh Bhaiyyaji Joshi unfurled the Tricolour and took a salute.

Big and small functions were also held in various government buildings, private companies, schools and colleges campuses, housing complexes, social organisations, and at various District Collectorate offices across the state.

Prominent landmarks and important buildings like Mantralaya, the BMC headquarters, the Western Railway and Central Railway headquarter, the Siddhivinayak Temple, etc.

The state and city police had beefed up the security all over to ensure incident-free celebrations.

Source: IANS

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Bengaluru, Jan 26 (SocialNews.XYZ) Pomp and pageantry marked the 71st Republic Day (R-Day) celebrations across Karnataka on Sunday amid tight security.

In the state capital, Governor Vaujubhai R. Vala hoisted the national flag and joined the huge gathering in rendering the national anthem played by the military band at the Manekshaw Parade Ground at the city centre.

An Indian Air Force helicopter showered flowers over the VIP area of the ground, welcoming the Governor, Chief Minister B.S. Yediyurappa, a few cabinet ministers, dignitaries, invitees and the public at the sprawling venue under a clear sky.

"The Governor inspected the guard of honour, going around the ground in an open jeep standing, received salute from the contingents of the three services, and other security forces, including the National Cadet Corps (NCC) and Bharat Scouts and Guides and reviewed their marchpast," a state official told IANS.

The state's anthem, penned by Kuvempu, Padma Vibhusan recipient, was also sung in Kannada on the occasion.

In a 20-minute R-Day address in Hindi to the gathering, the Governor highlighted the vision and achievements of the southern state over the past five years since he assumed office in 2014.

After the military and police bands played patriotic songs, the audience was treated to an hour-long cultural programme.

About 2,000 boys and girls from state-run schools and junior colleges across the city enacted patriotic and cultural shows.

Dog squads of the military and the state police were star attractions, drawing special applause by the audience.

The Bruhat Bengaluru Mahnagara Palike (BBMP), which hosts the R-Day every year on behalf of the state government, participated for the first time, with a 50-member contingent of its civic staff in the march-past.

The state anti-terrorist squad (Garuda Force) demonstrated its preparedness to take on the enemy during a terror incident by performing a bus intervention exercise to rescue the commuters trapped in the vehicle.

A 20-member team of the Indian Army Service Corps, nicknamed Tornadoes, enthralled the audience with dare-devil stunts on military motorcycles.

The city police deployed 70 closed circuit television cameras (CCTVs) in and around the ground for surveillance, installed metal detectors and placed a bomb-detection squad.

According to reports from districts across the state, R-Day was celebrated with gaiety and patriotic fervour.

Source: IANS

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New Delhi, Jan 26 (SocialNews.XYZ) Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) Chief Mohan Bhagwat has an unequivocal message for the people of India on the occasion of 71st Republic Day -- rights come along with an individual's duties.

Bhagwat was speaking at a Republic Day event at Uttar Pradesh's Gorakhpur after unfurling the tricolour.

He said: "The Constitution has made every citizen of the country a king. The king has the rights, but with the rights, everyone should also follow his duties and be disciplined."

The timing of the message is interesting when many have taken to the streets to protest against legislation like Citizenship Amendment Act, often resulting in senseless violence. Though Bhagwat didn't mention the CAA in as clear terms in his address, his message is believed to be for the protesters.

On December 15 last year, during a protest against the CAA outside Delhi's Jamia Millia Islamia, four DTC buses and hundreds of private vehicles were damaged. The same week, Delhi's Seelampur-Jafrabad area witnessed massive stone pelting and large scale arson. More than 10,000 residents of Seelampur, Jafrabad and adjoining areas assembled around 1 p.m. and marched towards Jafrabad before they tried to torch a police post. The protest was predominantly against the CAA. In West Bengal, trains and stations were set on fire over protest against the contentious Act.

While Bhagwat reminded Indians that its a two way street when it comes to availing the fundamental rights as a citizen, he said, "India will be built in accordance with the dreams of our revolutionaries who will liberate the country (when we play our part as well)."

India on Sunday, celebrated 71st Republic Day amid much fanfare, across the nation.

Source: IANS

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Kolkata, Jan 26 (SocialNews.XYZ) West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Sunday called for protecting the Constitution and upholding the principles enshrined in its preamble on the occasion of the nation's 71st Republic Day.

"On #RepublicDay, let us pledge to protect our #Constitution and uphold the principles of sovereign, socialist, secular, democratic republic, with justice, liberty, equality and fraternity, as enshrined in the Preamble," Banerjee said in a tweet.

Governor Jagdeep Dhankhar stressed on settling all issues as per the Constitution.

"All issues need to be settled as per our Constitution," Dhankhar tweeted.

Source: IANS

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By Rajnish Singh

New Delhi, Jan 26 (SocialNews.XYZ) The 71st Republic Day parade on Sunday showcased India's cultural diversity as well as military prowess with many firsts as hundreds of men, women and children donning thick woollens braved the morning winter chill to watch the annual ceremony at Rajpath.

A blanket of thick fog that engulfed the city in the morning and tight security restrictions could not deter the enthusiastic crowd from venturing out to gather at Rajpath, literary 'King's Way' - a ceremonial boulevard that runs from Rashtrapati Bhavan on Raisina Hill to India Gate.

The parade, a showcase of an impeccable display of might by the armed forces and India's soft power, this year had many firsts to its credit.

Sporting a saffron turban with a long free-flowing end, Prime Minister Narendra Modi received Brazil President Jair Messias Bolsonaro as the chief guest for the first time at the ceremony. However, this was the third time that a Brazilian president graced the Republic Day parade. Previous instances were in 1996 and 2004.

The who's who of the government, including President Ram Nath Kovind and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh were seated when 22 tableaus - 16 from states and union territories and the rest from various ministries and departments - took part in the majestic parade at Delhi's Rajpath.

Breaking from tradition, Prime Minister Modi for the first time paid tributes to the country's fallen soldiers at the National War Memorial, instead of Amar Jawan Jyoti, ahead of the majestic parade at Rajpath.

Previously, the wreath laying ceremony followed by a salute by dignitaries during Republic Day was held at the Amar Jawan Jyoti, located under the arch of India Gate.

After the Prime Minister laid the floral wreath at the National War Memorial, the President unfurled the National flag and the National Anthem was played with a booming 21-gun salute.

It was the first Republic Day ceremony in which newly-appointed Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) General Bipin Rawat took part.

The CDS along with Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Minister of State for Defence Shripad Yesso Naik, the three services chiefs and Defence Secretary Ajay Kumar were standing behind the Prime Minister according to protocol.

Another first, and a thrilling one at that, was the sight of women officers of the Central Reserve Police Force riding 350 cc Royal Enfield motorcycles, performing acrobatics and daredevil stunts with panache along the Rajpath.

In its debut show at 71st Republic Day, the contingent was commanded by Inspector Seema Nag, who is posted with the Rapid Action Force (RAF). They displayed several acts of daring bike riding and concluded by forming a human pyramid on multiple motorcycles.

In yet another first on giving adequate representation to women in the ceremony, Captain Tania Sher Gill, an officer serving with the Army's Corps of Signals, led an all-male marching contingent during the parade.

Although Gill is the second woman to do this, she was the first woman officer to lead an all-male marching contingent during the Army Day parade on January 15.

The Dhanush artillery gun and the anti-satellite missile system was part of the Republic Day parade for the first time this year in a show of military strength which also included Anti-Satellite Weapons (ASAT) from 'Mission Shakti'.

The other two armaments displayed for the first time were the 5-metre Short Span Bridge System and the 15-metre Sarvatra Bridge System.

Newly-inducted Chinook heavy lift and Apache attack choppers were displayed for the first time during the parade at the Rajpath at the grand finale, the most keenly awaited segments of the parade.

'Trishul' flypast was carried out by three Advanced Light Helicopters. This was the first time a tri-service formation took part in a Republic Day parade. This was followed by the 'Vic' formation of Chinook helicopters, used for airlifting diverse loads to remote locations, Sukhoi formation and Flanker formation.

Also marching for the first time in the Republic Day parade was the contingent of the Corps of Army Air Defence. It was followed by the Combined Band of Bengal Engineers Group and Centre, Brigade of Guards Training Centre, 3 Electronics and Mechanical Engineers Centre and Madras Regimental Centre.

After the event concluded, the Prime Minister walked down a few metres along Rajpath -- like he did last year -- waving towards the crowd.

Around the parade venue, the city had literally turned into a fortress with special security teams, anti-aircraft guns and snipers deployed to keep a vigil on the eight-km path from Rajpath to Red Fort.

Hundreds of CCTV cameras and drones kept a close watch on people's movements along the route. Nearly 60,000 security personnel from Delhi Police and central security forces were deployed in central Delhi.

(Rajnish Singh can be contacted at rajnish.s@ians.in)

Source: IANS

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Shimla, Jan 26 (SocialNews.XYZ) Braving bone-biting cold, people across Himachal Pradesh celebrated Republic Day on Sunday.

Governor Bandaru Dattatreya unfurled the national flag at the main function at the historic Ridge here where Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur, his cabinet colleagues and government functionaries were among those present.

In snow-marooned Keylong, headquarters of Lahaul and Spiti, and Rekong Peo in Kinnaur districts, the respective Deputy Commissioners presided over the official function.

Despite the chill, people took part in the flag unfurling ceremonies and witnessed a march past by security personnel as well as cultural programmes staged by children in all 12 district towns.

The Governor took the salute at an impressive parade by contingents of the police, Indo-Tibetan Border Police, Home Guards, Army, NCC and ex-servicemen.

Chief Justice L. Narayana Swamy unfurled the national flag at a function held in the complex of the Himachal Pradesh High Court here.

Source: IANS

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Thiruvananthapuram, Jan 26 (SocialNews.XYZ) After being engaged in a bitter fight over the CAA, Kerala Governor Arif Mohammad Khan had only good words for Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, in his Republic Day speech, here on Sunday.

Earlier on a few occasions, both Khan and Vijayan took on each another over the Ctizenship Amendment Act, with Khan strongly in favour of it and Vijayan opposing it tooth and nail.

But after hoisting the tri-colour at the Central Stadium on Sunday, Khan in his address heaped praises on Vijayan and in the way he has been taking Kerala forward.

Contrary to expectations, Khan did not delve into his favourite topic of CAA or lashing at the Vijayan government, the only reference he made was that he is proud to belong to a nation that gave refuge to various people including those from Israel who came to South India.

"The real sweetness of Kerala's achievements lies in the gravity of the adversities we faced in the last two years. First, the devastating flood, then, ruthless landslides. But, with a rare spirit of oneness, we overcame those hurdles with a courage and grace," said Khan.

"Development initiatives under the leadership of Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan brought well deserved recognition to Kerala. First in sustainable development goal index of UN and NITI Aayog, first in health and public education and model in terms of welfare and gender equality," said Khan.

For the photographers it was a hectic time as all eyes were on Khan when he welcomed Vijayan and his family and it reached a climax when Khan placed Vijayan's grandson on his lap.

Incidentally at all the other 13 district headquarters, cabinet colleagues of Vijayan took the salute and at a few places ministers did speak about the ill effects of CAA.

Across the state, the day was celebrated by hoisting of the tricolour at various central government establishments, defence establishments, banks, private organisations and clubs.

Source: IANS

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Dharamsala, Jan 26 (SocialNews.XYZ) The Central Tibetan Administration (CTA) on Sunday greeted the people of India on their 71st Republic Day and expressed gratitude for granting political asylum to spiritual leader the Dalai Lama.

A ceremony was held at the CTA headquarters here in this Himachal Pradesh town that saw the presence of its ministers, secretaries and senior leadership.

Hoisting the Indian national flag to the tune of the Indian national anthem, Department of Religion and Culture Minister Karma Gelek Yuthok greeted the people by saying: "Over the course of 71 years, India has garnered worldwide admiration for its booming growth in every field and especially for the thriving democracy and diversity."

"On this occasion, I take the opportunity to express our heartfelt gratitude to India for granting political asylum to His Holiness the Dalai Lama, for ensuring the viability and sustainability of the Tibetan freedom struggle and lastly, for supporting the efforts of the Tibetan people in the preservation of its rich ancient culture and unique identity," he said.

He also thanked the Indian government for giving recognition to the Tibetan Buddhist tradition and culture and conferring India's highest civilian awards on individuals with extraordinary accomplishments in the Tibetan Buddhism discipline.

Every year, the CTA, the democratically elected government-in-exile, holds functions at its headquarters to celebrate India's Republic Day and Independence Day functions.

India is currently home to around 100,000 Tibetans and the CTA.

Source: IANS

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Mumbai, Jan 26 (SocialNews.XYZ) Telly actors like Jasmin Bhasin, Meera Deosthale and Paritosh Tripathi say the Republic Day, being celebrated by the nation on Sunday, holds a special place in their hearts.

"Vidya" actress Meera Deosthale said: "The Republic Day holds a special place in not only my heart but in the heart of every Indian. This is the historic day when our Indian constitution came into effect. As a kid, I got to know what the day is about, but as an adult is when I realised the true importance of this special day."

"Just like my show, I also want to spread the message of education and equality across the country."

Jasmin, who is seen as Nayantra in "Naagin", went back to her childhood days. "It used to be a holiday in school, but I remember attending flag hoisting in my building with all our neighbours. After that, all my building friends would sing the same timeless patriotic songs. Also, I hope that we can be kind towards each other this Republic Day and take care of Mother Nature," she said.

Actor Vijayendra Kumeria feels that Republic Day is the most significant day for all Indians. "On this day, I will attend the flag hoisting ceremony in my building/on set. As a ritual, I will watch my favourite patriotic film 'Rang De Basanti', it a movie I like revisiting often. This Republic Day, I also want all the men to step forward and take a pledge to protect this country's women on this historic day," he said.

Actor Paritosh Tripathi believes that Indians should celebrate Republic Day and Independence Day everyday. "Being an actor, it's our responsibility to be aware what is happening in our society and spread awareness in society whenever possible. I keep on writing inspiring poems. I believe in cleanliness and I always carry small dustbin in my car," he said.

Actress Neha Mehta, popular as Anjali Mehta from "Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah", also feels that as actors, they are responsible to spread awareness in the society.

"People follow us and it becomes easy to send any message through us. In my show, we always try to show important issues like saving water, cleanliness and girl education," she shared.

"Vighnaharta Ganesh" actor Kuldeep Singh sees it as a "historical day to remember our national heroes and freedom fighters".

"It is our duty to maintain the beauty of this country. We should always look forward to the betterment of our nation," he added.

Source: IANS

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Lucknow, Jan 26 (SocialNews.XYZ) The 71st Republic Day was celebrated with much gaiety in Uttar Pradesh on Sunday.

UP Governor Anandiben Patel hoisted the tricolour in front of the Vidhan Sabha and witnessed the ceremonial parade along with chief minister Yogi Adityanath and his cabinet colleagues.

Flower petals were showered from helicopters during the event.

The chief minister, earlier, unfurled the national flag at his residence.

At the Samajwadi Party office, party patriarch Mulayam Singh Yadav hoisted the national flag and asked the youth to take a pledge to fight against injustice. He said that the Republic Day was a celebration of the sacrifices made by freedom fighters.

In Etawah, Samajwadi Party president Akhilesh Yadav unfurled a 155-feet tall tricolour. Senior party men were present on the occasion.

At the Congress state headquarters in Lucknow, UPCC president Ajay Kumar Lallu hoisted the national flag and pledged to fight for the constitutional rights of the people.

Source: IANS

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Aizawl, Jan 26 (SocialNews.XYZ) Mizoram Governor P.S. Sreedharan Pillai on Sunday said that the state's economic growth rate of 14.82 per cent last year was one of the best among states in the country and it is likely to be similar this year as well.

"Mizoram has been witnessing remarkable economic growth in recent years. Last year the state's economic growth rate was 14.82 per cent which is one of the best among the states in the country and it is likely to be similar this year as well," the Governor said after unfurling the national flag on Republic Day at the Assam Rifles ground in Aizawl.

He said during the period of 2012-18, Mizoram had highest average growth rate of 12.75 per cent in the country and never witnessed such consistent high growth rates in the past. "If this momentum of growth rate is maintained for the next 10 years, then it would be possible to eradicate poverty, ensure all round development, be self-sufficient and bring equity in all aspects of societal life. This growth rate was achieved due to the state government's flagship programme -- Socio-Economic Development Policy (SEDP)."

SEDP aims at accelerating progress in these key sectors and transforming Mizoram into a welfare state.

He said that the Mizoram government in collaboration with Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) has implemented a project called 'Capacity Enhancement for Sustainable Agriculture and Irrigation Development in Mizoram'.

"It was a matter of happiness that the four-partite agreement was recently signed between the Centre, state governments of Mizoram and Tripura, and the tribal representatives to peacefully end the 22-year-long Reang tribals' ethnic imbroglio," the Governor said.

Pillai said that Aizawl city was selected as one of the 'Smart Cities' under the nationwide Smart Cities Mission. The Smart City Project is being implemented by following the area-based strategy (retrofitting) and pan-city strategy.

He said that the Mizoram government has successfully conducted the first phase of the National Initiative for School Heads and Teachers Holistic Advancement (NISTHA) to improve learning outcomes at the elementary level in schools by building competencies among all the teachers and school principals at elementary stage.

He said that HIV/AIDS has become a major problem in Mizoram and its need to tackle this problem on a war-footing. "We need to create mass awareness and movement to ensure that this dreaded disease is rapidly checked and its growth arrested. I appreciate the efforts of the church, NGOs and voluntary organisations in tackling this menace, and I believe, if we join hands we can win this battle."

Highlighting the development of tourism in Mizoram, the Governor said that tourism is a promising area for enhancement of the service industry and for employment generation.

"In 2019, 1,42,353 tourists had visited Mizoram and that was 63 per cent higher than the previous year. Mizoram has huge potential for development of tourism industry, especially eco-tourism and rural tourism," Pillai said.

Source: IANS

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Gorakhpur, Jan 26 (SocialNews.XYZ) RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat on Sunday hoisted the tricolour at the Bilandpur Khatta grounds in Gorakhpur on the occasion of Republic Day.

After the flag hoisting and the national anthem, Bhagwat offered floral tributes to 'Bharat Mata'. The RSS chief also addressed students of the Saraswati Shishu Mandir.

He underlined the need for maintaining the unity and integrity of the nation and enriching the social fabric.

The RSS chief is on a four-day visit to Gorakhpur and has been holding meetings with RSS office bearers from Goraksh, Kashi, Kanpur and Avadh.

Senior RSS leader Dattatreya Hosabale is also addressing a session in the four-day meet

A RSS functionary said that none of the sessions will be open for the media though Bhagwat may address a press conference later.

Source: IANS

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New Delhi, Jan 26 (SocialNews.XYZ) The maiden batch of the National Cadet Corps (NCC) girls' unit of the Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) on Sunday conferred a guard of honour to the Vice Chancellor M. Jagadesh Kumar, as the University celebrated the Republic Day.

"The guard of honour by 15 girl NCC cadets during Republic Day Celebrations in the JNU is not only significant for us as a University, but also it sends out a larger message of unity and discipline.

"We are proud of our cadets and we hope to establish a boys NCC unit also at JNU," the Vice Chancellor said after the parade.

The Republic day parade in the campus is being seen as a symbol of normalcy returning to the campus after the infamous January 5 violence episode when a masked mob assaulted the students and professors in the campus.

Source: IANS

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Chandigarh, Jan 26 (SocialNews.XYZ) Asserting that the secular foundations of India's Constitution would continue to stand firm, Punjab Chief Minister Amarinder Singh on Sunday vowed to protect one and all, irrespective of caste, creed or religion.

The Chief Minister said the nation's unity was inviolable, notwithstanding the discordant voices being raised in the current scenario.

Pointing out the resolution passed by the state Assembly (on CAA) was there for all to see, the Chief Minister made it clear that the state would not allow the country's secular fabric to be destroyed at any cost.

Greeting the people on the 71st Republic Day, the Chief Minister said, "secularism was the message of our Guru, whose philosophy of 'Na koyi Hindu, Na koyi Musalman, Sab Rab ke bande' is imbued in our consciousness."

On the occasion, Amarinder Singh unfurled the tricolour, and also took the salute at a colourful parade in Mohali near here, followed by a cultural extravaganza by school children.

For the first time this year, the Republic Day celebrations in the state witnessed an inspiring display by the Special Operations Group (SOG), constituted by the Chief Minister as an elite, specially trained force to combat terrorism, infiltration, hijacking and other sensitive threat situations.

In his speech, he said Punjab was blessed by the historic opening of Kartarpur Corridor to facilitate 'Khule Darshan Didar' of the revered gurdwara that was touched by the first Sikh Guru, Guru Nanak Dev's presence.

The state was also honoured to be celebrating the 550th birth anniversary year of Guru Nanak Dev, the 399th birth anniversary of Guru Teg Bahadur, the 100th birth anniversary of Acharya Shri Mahapragya -- the 10th head of Svetambar Terapanth order of Jainism, the 750th birth anniversary of Bhagat Namdev and the 350th birth anniversary of Baba Banda Singh Bahadur, he said.

At the same time, his government would continue to work dedicatedly for the progress of Punjab, which had attracted unprecedented investment over the last two years, said the Chief Minister, pointing to the Rs 57,735 crore investment secured on the ground.

He said the efforts to bring in industry would continue, in order to tackle unemployment, which he termed as the biggest challenge faced by the state.

Underlining the importance of environmental protection in the face of the global warming, which was adversely impacting weather patterns, Amarinder Singh said so far 76 lakh saplings had been planted across all villages and towns in the state. He appealed to every citizen to contribute to the care of these saplings.

The Chief Minister also underscored the importance given by his government to promoting healthcare and ensuring access to affordable healthcare to the people through the Sarbat Sehat Bima Yojana, covering 48 lakh families totalling 2.2 crore people as against the 14 lakh families covered by the government of India under scheme.

More than 1 lakh people have already availed free cashless treatment under the Yojana, he added. The new AIIMS at Bathinda had also become functional, he said.

Terming the drug menace as an issue of grave concern, the Chief Minister said his government remained committed to the total elimination of the problem.

The Special Task Force set up to tackle the menace had shown excellent results with 34,373 cases registered so far under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act and 42,571 people having been arrested with recovery of 974 kg heroin.

More than one lakh addicts are being treated at the 193 outpatient opioid assisted treatment (OOAT) centres established by the government.

Expressing concern on the issue of safety of women, the Chief Minister said apart from the free pick and drop facility by the state police, 'One Stop Sakhi' centres had been established in all districts for the "protection of our daughters".

On the depleting water table, the Chief Minister stressed upon the need to conserve water, whose level had come down to less than 13 MAF (million acre-feet), as a result of 73 per cent of it being used for irrigation purposes.

Source: IANS

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New Delhi, Jan 26 (SocialNews.XYZ) It was tricolour balloons, 22 tableaux projecting India's rich diversity, the armed forces showcasing their might and 'garba' on Rajpath, as India celebrated 71 years as a republic on Sunday.

Sixteen state tableaux and six from different ministries and departments were displayed on Rajpath. While, Jammu & Kashmir showcased its 'Back to Village' programme, the Odisha tableau showcased the Rukuna Ratha Yatra of Lord Lingaraja. Kullu's Dussehra festival was proudly projected by the Himachal Pradesh tableau. CPWD Horticulture tableau's theme was 'Kashmir se Kanyakumari'.

Birla Balika Vidyapeeth, a school which has been continuously participating in the Republic Day parade for 56 years now was also there on the Rajpath. When the girls crossed the Rajpath playing their instruments, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman stood up to applaud them.

The event also witnessed India showcasing its military prowess. The Air Defence Tactical Control Radar was displayed at the parade as was Boeing P8I Long Range Maritime Patrol aircraft and the Kolkata Class Destroyer and the Kalvari Class submarine by the Indian Navy.

Advanced Light Helicopters were flown in 'Diamond' formation, over Rajpath as this year's Republic Day Chief guest Brazilian President Jair Messias Bolsonaro watched with awe. The T-90 Bhishma battle tanks of the Indian Army proudly rolled down the Rajpath, commanded by Captain Sunny Chahar of 86 Armoured Regiment.

One key takeaway of the parade was the 'garba' dance of Gujarat as about 150 girl students from schools in Gujarat showcased the folk dance.

After the parade was over, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, sporting a saffron turban, walked on the Rajpath waving at people who were there to witness the gala event.

Earlier, President Ram Nath Kovind received the national salute at Rajpath. Lieutenant General Asit Mistry, General Officer Commanding, Headquarters Delhi Area, led this year's parade.

Prime Minister Modi also paid rich tributes to the martyred soldiers by laying a wreath at the National War Memorial in New Delhi, before the parade began. He was accompanied by Chief of Defence Staff General Bipin Rawat along with the three service chiefs - Army Chief General M.M. Naravane, Navy Chief Admiral Karambir Singh and Air Chief Marshal R.K.S. Bhadauria.

Source: IANS

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Panaji, Jan 26 (SocialNews.XYZ) Goa has led the way in the country by being the first and the only state to follow a Uniform Civil Code, said Governor Satya Pal Malik in his Republic Day speech here on Sunday.

Malik, who also listed the achievements of the state government, also said that the crime rate in the coastal state has dipped in 2019 as compared to the previous year.

"Goa is known for its peaceful coexistence of various religions communities. It is a state with a rich tradition of harmony and has maintained this through these years," Malik said.

"Goa is the only state in India that has a uniform civil code. Regardless of our religion, gender, caste, Goa has common family law. I feel Goa is truly blessed to have peace and unity in diversity," the Governor said.

The Governor also said that Goa is one of the fastest growing states in the country, with well developed social, health, industrial, tourism and sports infrastructure as well as virtual connectivity.

Commenting about the law and order situation in the state, Malik also said that the crime rate in the state had seen a decline of 10.4 per cent in 2019 as compared to the previous year.

"At the same time crime detection rate has increased to 84 per cent in 2019 as against 82 per cent in 2018 due to adequate staffing and implementation of various preventive measures and adoption of modern technology," Malik said.

Source: IANS

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